Staying active and engaged after retirement

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We often don’t realize how integral our careers and families are to our identities until we retire.

By Jeff Risner, Renaissance of Richfield/Bath

On the road to retirement, day in and day out, we eagerly inch closer to our reward for our life’s work. We dream of retirement as a time to relax or reinvent ourselves. When we get there, and the day comes when we can finally chuck that early morning alarm clock, reality sets in.

Now what?

The road ahead may look empty, particularly as we continue to live longer lives well past the age of retirement. We should forge ahead, and remember retirement is our time to rediscover our mind, body and spirit.

We’ve all heard it’s not the destination; it’s the journey. So let’s be there for it, and not let our minds wander. A healthy mind is an active mind. The direction we take is up to us, but remember the left side of the brain needs to keep learning, and the right side of the brain needs to stay creative. Arts and educational opportunities abound each month on the activities calendar at Renaissance of Richfield/Bath. Remember, the best still lies ahead.

Our bodies are with us every step of the way, so it’s vital that we take time out to play. Play strengthens our bodies and supports our mood. Play can take the form of yoga classes or be as simple as a walk. Smart bands give members with Alzheimer’s or dementia at the Renaissance of Richfield/Bath the freedom to wander safely about.

We often don’t realize how integral our careers and families are to our identities until we retire. We lose contact with co-workers and the center of support in our families shifts as sons and daughters take on responsibilities of their own. Communities buoy the spirit. The doors of Renaissance of Richfield/Bath open into a community that calls Main Street home.

We are happiest when we can share our passions and talents—in our mind, body and spirit. When we discover who we really are, we realize there are not enough hours in the day.

The Renaissance of Richfield/Bath is located at 3975 Everett Road in Richfield. Call 330-313-7000 or visit RenaissanceAssistedLiving.net.