Gone are the days when retirement meant hanging up your hat and settling into a life of inactivity. Once, lifespans barely outlasted our working years, and it wasn’t uncommon for people to pass away shortly after retiring. The chicken-and-egg dilemma remains: did people die because they stopped working, or did they stop working because they were nearing the end? Thankfully, this is no longer the case. Many older Australians now enjoy a vibrant life for 30 years or more post-retirement. As the baby boomers have shown us, those years don’t have to be spent in a rocking chair with a blanket. The later years can be wonderful, but maintaining our well-being, especially our brains, is crucial. Being 80 is no reason to stop learning. Here are a few tips to stay sharp.
Keep Active and Engaged
Staying Ambitious: People who have spent their lives tackling ambitious tasks often continue into their 80s and even 90s. Rupert Murdoch, for example, remains a powerful figure in the global media industry at 93. Warren Buffet, at 94, continues to be a financial industry guru. Bernie Ecclestone is still active in the high-paced world of Formula 1 at 93, regularly travelling to races.
Leaders and board members of large companies often continue their roles well into their later years. Gerry Harvey shows no signs of slowing down at 84. Ronald Reagan became US president at 70 and served until he was 79. These individuals thrive on activity and consequently maintain sharp, active brains late into their lives.
Lifelong Learning
Continuous Learning: The brain has an incredible capacity to learn throughout life. It can even repair itself from trauma, such as a stroke. Like any muscle, it needs exercise. Engage in crosswords, puzzles, or reading. Consider learning a new skill, like painting.
Proper Nutrition
Fuelling the Body: Our bodies require proper fuel to function optimally. Just as a car wouldn’t run well on soft drink, our bodies need the right nutrients. Good nutrition provides energy, keeps our organs healthy, and improves everything from sleep quality to confidence.
Hydration
Importance of Water: We need water to cleanse our system and keep our organs functioning properly. Hydration sharpens our senses and helps our body perform optimally. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated, so drink water regularly.
Physical Activity
Exercise and Brain Health: Physical activity is crucial for a healthy brain. Even a 20-minute walk can stimulate your mind and improve your mood. You’ll be surprised by how good you feel and the ideas you generate.
Writing
Creative Expression: Many of the world’s best authors have found their later years to be their most productive. Writing a memoir, poems, or a screenplay can be incredibly fulfilling and mentally stimulating. The same goes for painting and other creative pursuits.
Social Connections
Staying Connected: Social inclusion is vital for a healthy mind. Isolation can lead to depression and cognitive decline. Communities like Glenvale Villa offer social activities, BBQs, games, and excursions, turning mealtimes into social events and fostering a sense of belonging.
Independence
Maintaining Independence: Independence is crucial for mental health. Making your own decisions keeps your brain active and engaged. Dependence can lead to reliance and disinterest. Many active octogenarians, like Clint Eastwood, continue to challenge themselves creatively and professionally.
It’s All Relative
You don’t need to figure out the origin of the universe or design a rocket ship in your later years. Any mental stimulation, no matter how small, keeps the body and mind healthy. Embrace learning, stay active, and maintain your social connections to thrive in your retirement years.
