In the golden years of life, the heart knows no bounds. As we age, it’s not just about counting the years, but about making each moment count. For active seniors who are young at heart, life is an adventure waiting to be embraced, a canvas waiting for vibrant strokes of experiences and a journey filled with vitality and zest.
For many, retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter — one filled with boundless opportunities for exploration and self-discovery. From mastering new hobbies to embarking on exhilarating travel adventures, active seniors refuse to let the passage of time dim their spark. Instead, they welcome each day as an opportunity to indulge their passions and cultivate meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.
To help with this article, questions were sent to local seniors active in the community: Bob Purkerson (85), Linda and Roland Shelley (70s), Molly Star (84), Bruce Zuckerman (76), Terry Fink (72) and Andrea Richards (70).
Commitment to Physical Well-being
One of the hallmarks of an active senior’s lifestyle is a commitment to physical well-being. Whether it’s practicing yoga in the serene tranquility of a studio or dancing the night away at a lively social gathering, they understand the importance of staying active and nurturing their bodies. Through regular exercise, they not only maintain their physical vitality, but also enjoy a sense of empowerment and confidence that radiates from within.
Star remarked “I try not to pay attention to how old I feel. Instead, I ride my Peloton for 6-7 miles every other day and walk on non-bike days.”
Zuckerman echoed, “My entire adult life I have tried to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle of work, exercise, diet and nutrition and social contact with friends and loved ones. I cannot say enough about the value of exercise for seniors.” He encourages everyone to find an activity that you enjoy and will commit to.
Cultivating a Mindset
But it’s not just about physical activities; it’s about cultivating a mindset that defies stereotypes and approaches life with unbridled enthusiasm. These active seniors understand that age is merely a number and youthfulness resides in the attitude we carry. They greet each day with gratitude, finding joy in simple pleasures and seizing every opportunity to learn and grow.
Fink replied, “Attitude is probably the most important asset to a younger self-image.”
Purkerson added, “Live life to its fullest every day because every day is a gift from God. Keep setting the bar high. Never give up.”
A practical tip from Zuckerman was to “make errands more of an outing rather than a chore.” He continued, “a stop to get to-go coffee makes the post office line much more tolerable!” And “The best thing about being my age is the ability to recognize there is very little that I need to worry about, and my experience lets me know that most things work out ok.”
Feeding the Soul
Beyond their physical abilities and proper attitude it’s about feeding the soul as well. For many active seniors, faith has become a cornerstone of their lifestyle, offering a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends age. Whether it’s mentoring younger generations, serving meals at a local shelter or advocating for causes close to their hearts, they are proof that age is no barrier to making a difference in the world.
Purkerson said, “I start every morning with Bible study and end every day on my knees beside my bed in prayer.”
Linda Shelley, who along with her husband Roland is in her 70s, remarked that she has been attending a Bible study and “feels a better relationship with God” in her later years.
New Experiences
In the realm of leisure, active seniors are constantly seeking new experiences to enrich their lives. From pottery classes to photography workshops, they eagerly embrace opportunities for creative expression and personal growth. With a curious spirit and an open mind, they dive headfirst into the unknown, relishing the thrill of discovery with each new endeavor.
The Shelleys said, “Trying new activities and learning new skills such as yoga, pickleball, video editing, drone photography, etc. (keep them young at heart). It’s important that you try new things even though they’re out of your comfort zone. Have fun and laugh at yourself.”
Fink added, “To dare to try new experiences later in life can be the most enriching thing you can do to keep yourself young at heart.”
Richards, who recently turned 70, has taken up pottery. She quipped, “I’m not that good at it, but putting my hands into the clay and shaping a vase or bowl is so aesthetically pleasing and rewarding.”
And perhaps one of the best pieces of advice came from Purkerson who noted, “My coaches taught me to never give up and try to improve every day. I guess they are still coaching me to this very day.”
Fink reminded us that everyone should “remain a lifelong learner.”
Travel
Travel, too, holds a special place in the hearts of active seniors, who view the world as their playground. Whether it’s embarking on a cross-country road trip or flying to far-flung destinations, they approach each adventure with a sense of wonder and excitement. Through travel, they forge connections with diverse cultures, savoring the richness of life’s tapestry with every new encounter.
“Retired for nearly 10 years, I began by traveling globally to enlighten my perspective of customs, foods, history and scenic wonders,” commented Fink. “I’ve written travel articles and captured amazing photographs.”
Community of Like-minded Individuals
At the heart of it all lies a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for living life to the fullest. Through social clubs, recreational groups and community events, active seniors come together to celebrate their shared interests and support one another on their journeys. It’s a testament to the power of connection and camaraderie, proving that age is indeed only a number when it comes to forging lasting friendships and fostering a sense of belonging.
The Shelleys added, “We are fortunate that we love each other and enjoy each other’s company.”
Fink proclaimed, “I spend lots of time with wonderful friends.”
Richards chimed in, “My friends are very important to me. If I don’t talk on the telephone or see someone socially for a couple of days, I have withdrawal symptoms.”
In the end, being a young-at-heart senior is not just about defying stereotypes — it’s about embracing life with unwavering enthusiasm and boundless optimism. It’s about cherishing each moment, relishing every experience and approaching the world with an open heart and an adventurous spirit. So here’s to the active seniors who remind us that age is but a fleeting concept and that the true essence of youth lies in the joy of living each day to the fullest.
Thanks to the residents of Restore at Carolina Park for sharing their stories and inspiring us all.
By Katie Finch
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