When was the last time that you laughed so hard that you cried, or ran through the sprinklers on a hot day? Many of us would say that these things are just plain old fun. As science journalist Catherine Price, author of The Power of Fun, writes fun is when you try to embody playfulness, connection, and flow. In this sense, fun is not just for the young. In fact, according to a study conducted by the Journal of Biobehavioral Medicine, enjoyable leisure activities can improve physical and mental health and well-being, which are key to reducing aging. Below we’ll show you 11 fun things that you can enjoy over 60 that are sure to make you feel young again.
1. Try a New Hobby
Many people over the age of 60 rediscover passions from their youth or take up an entirely new hobby. Overall, having a hobby is not only fun but can contribute to feeling more fulfilled. Is there a hobby that you’ve always wanted to try? Maybe you played an instrument in your high school band that you’d like to pick up again. Other ideas include gardening, knitting, or scrapbooking.
2. Play Games with Friends
There’s nothing like the thrill of winning a board game. Games, especially ones that you played as a child, are perfect activities that will help you have fun and make you feel young again. Even better, you can invite friends and family over for a game night for added enjoyment. If you enjoy solitude, games like chess or card games can help keep your mind sharp.
3. Spend More Time in Nature
Remember when you used to spend hours outside in nature as a kid? Maybe you loved swinging as high as you could on the swings or riding your bike through nature trails. These are all fun things you can do to feel young again. Often called forest bathing, research has shown that spending time in nature can also support your health, especially if you’re over 60. If camping interests you, here are ways you can enjoy your next camping trip.
4. Plan a Trip
Are there any places that you’ve always wanted to travel to? Here are cities we think that you need to travel to at least once in your lifetime. With more time at your disposal when you’re over 60, now is the perfect time to plan a fun trip. Many older adults get a group of friends or couples together for a group trip. This is the perfect way to travel for optimal fun. Travel has even been shown to help you live longer.
5. Have a Dance Party
If you really want to feel younger, don’t be afraid to dance like there’s no one watching! Just like when you were in your teenage years, it can be incredibly fun to turn up your favorite music and have an impromptu dance party, even if you are by yourself. If you find it more fun to dance with a partner, a local dance studio may be a great place to break out your moves.
6. Spend More Time with Family and Friends
As we get older and have more free time, spending time with friends and family can be the greatest source of joy. Some fun things to do include organizing a weekly brunch with your closest friends or having your family over for a movie night. These interactions are proven to not only increase your happiness but improve your mood as well.
7. Join a Book Club
If you enjoy reading, why not join or organize a book club? Not only will you read titles you enjoy, but you’ll gain valuable friendships in the process. Did you know that more than 5 million Americans are part of a book club? The popular activity has a long and rich history that continues to grow in popularity. Many book clubs follow along to popular reading lists such as Jenna Bush’s or Reese Witherspoon’s book club.
8. Play on a Sports Team
Did you enjoy sports in your youth? If you enjoy staying active, there are a plethora of senior sports leagues to choose from. The National Senior Games Association is a great resource to find organizations near you. One very popular sport to consider is pickleball. Many adults over 60 enjoy pickleball because of its low chance of injury and the social aspect of the game. Many local pickleball courts host open play where you can meet other players easily.
9. Take a Class
Taking a class can be very fun and rewarding while making you feel young again. Learning a new skill can even bring you back to your school days. Many adults over 60 are taking college courses on a subject that interests them. Your local senior center is also a great place to look for classes ranging from floral design to computer skills.
10. Play with Your Grandkids
Nothing can help you feel younger than playing with children. Using your imagination and playing with your grandkids can be fun for all involved. If you don’t have grandkids, consider volunteering at a local school or YMCA. Your knowledge and experience can be invaluable to pass on to younger generations, and you may even learn something new too.
11. Interact with Animals
Interacting with animals is not only fun but is good for the soul. Consider adopting a pet if you enjoy the companionship, or spend the day at a farm to get some quality animal time. Many adults over 60 also choose to volunteer at a local animal shelter in their spare time. Research has shown that seniors who spend time with pets are happier.
Embracing Fun Activities at Every Age
No matter what your age, fun is always an important element to happiness and longevity. Whether you are looking for a new hobby, like cooking, or you enjoy the outdoors, there are so many options for fun activities that will make you feel younger. In the process, you may even find a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment that you can carry with you throughout your golden years.