Any senior citizen can struggle with boredom after retirement. In fact, many seniors find it tough to keep up with the routine they have after their retirement. The loss of the routinely life adds to this boredom. However, we have an interesting news:
Boredom makes people keen to engage in activities that they find more meaningful than those at hand
A study at the University of Southampton explained the evolutionary function of this uneasy, awful feeling this way: “Boredom makes people keen to engage in activities that they find more meaningful than those at hand.”
Can you imagine a world where we never got bored? Imagine a life where whatever you did with whichever frequency, never created any boredom. Any idea what this perpetual excitement could do to our lives? Could we ever get bored of this continuous excitement The funny thing is that this boredom that we all feel is actually quite interesting. Researches state that boredom like any other emotion has evolutionary benefits.
Imagine if you felt excited about the same lunch every day, the same movie every time you watched it. But this doesn’t happen. So, let’s see how you can deal with this boredom as a senior citizen.
1. Pursue a hobby to combat boredom
Before your boredom sinks you into lethargy, get going. For a senior citizen, engaging your mind with activities that you enjoy can bring positive outcomes. Research has shown that a senior citizen can overcome boredom by including new things in the daily routine. Pick up a hobby– a new craft or a favourite pass time. You can try writing, sculpting or learn a new musical instrument. Here are 5 hobbies that help a senior citizen to keep their mind sharp.
2. Connect with your loved ones
Boredom stemming from helpless lethargy results in anxiety and restlessness. Consequently, this can drive a senior citizen into isolation and depression. A lot of seniors become the victims of boredom because of this isolation. The solution is to connect with people. Write, call or email, whatever works for you, keep in touch with your loved ones, your neighbours and your friends. Maintain a healthy social connection with people close to you.
3. Stay active
Lethargy, lethargy, lethargy. Fight it off. Staying passive can drain you of your energy. Getting out of that couch and engaging yourself in some physical exercise can energise you, elevate your mood and add more excitement to your daily life. You can opt for Yoga, exercise clubs, walking etc.
4. Build your social life
Coax yourself into making new friends every month. Join hobby clubs or meetup groups to engage with people of matching interests. If you are living in an assisted living, there will surely be senior citizens that can you can connect with. Alternatively, volunteering can be a good way to socialise. Many organisations have flexible and interesting volunteer opportunities.
Extremities for anything is dangerous. Additionally, extreme boredom can cause health issues, therefore, put yourself out there and make the most of your senior life. You can always find recreational ways to deal with boredom in your life.
Are you someone who is going through a similar phase? Don’t worry, we have got it all covered! Unmukt Festival is a one-stop lifestyle solutions hub for Seniors. Follow us to stay updated on healthy ageing and senior citizen