Things to Do in Retirement: Best Hobbies for Seniors in Canada

01 03, 2023
Jake Smith

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Retirement marks the end of a long career and the start of a new chapter in life, with so many things to do. From staying active to exploring new interests, there is something for everyone when it comes to the next phase in your life!

In this article, we will cover a few ideas to help you make the most of your later life, no matter your financial constraints. That way, you can make sure you make the most of your golden years.

Here are Fun Things to Do for Older Adults in Retirement:

Gardening

One of the most relaxing and rewarding activities you can do is gardening. Gardening is a great way to get outside and get some exercise. Spend some time tending to your plants, and you’ll reap the rewards of your labor. You can grow your own fruits and vegetables, which can save you money on groceries. Planting different vegetables and fruits also helps to diversify your diet, exposing you to new flavors and tastes.

Gardening also helps to bring the beauty of nature into your home. You can choose flowers that will attract butterflies and other wildlife to your garden. You can also pick out herbs and other plants that will give your home a nice aroma.

Adding a few plants can make any indoor or outdoor space comes with many benefits. It makes the space feel inviting and relaxing. Plus, you can use fresh herbs to flavor your meals and make them more enjoyable. Gardening can help you to enjoy nature while providing you with the means to improve your health and wallet.

Gardening is a great new skill to learn as you make your community more beautiful while getting fresh air.
Senior woman potting plant in garden at home.

Travel

Retirement is a great time to travel and see new places. You can plan a road trip, take a cruise, or visit a foreign country. Whether you choose to explore your own backyard or journey to the other side of the world, travel can be a great way to spend your retirement.

Road trips, in particular, are a great way to travel in retirement. You can take your time, see the sights, and discover places you never knew existed. You can plan a weekend getaway, or a longer trip spanning several weeks. With a road trip, the possibilities are endless.

Cruises are another great way to travel in retirement. Cruise ships offer a variety of destinations and amenities, from all-inclusive packages to themed cruises. You can choose a shorter cruise, or a longer voyage that spans multiple days. Cruises provide the perfect opportunity to relax and explore new places.

Finally, visiting a foreign country can be an exciting way to spend retirement. You can plan a multi-week vacation, or a longer trip of several months. Exploring a new country allows you to immerse yourself in a different culture, meet new people, and experience a place like never before.

No matter how you choose to spend your retirement, travel can be one of the best ways to make the most of it. From road trips to cruises to foreign countries, the possibilities are endless. So make a plan, choose a destination, and start exploring the world!

Vacation time can also be a great time to learn a new language (or to teach english as a part-time job).
Group of senior friends posing for selfie as they hike along trail in countryside together.

Photography

Photography is a wonderful way to celebrate your retirement and to capture memories. You can express your creativity by taking photos of your travels, your garden, or your family and friends. With a digital camera, you can quickly and easily share your photos with friends and family. You don't have to be an expert photographer to enjoy the hobby. Amateur photographers can use simple editing software to enhance their photos and create beautiful works of art.

If you're worried you won't have enough money, don't! You don't need expensive equipment to get started. You can find affordable cameras and lenses online or in retail stores. Investing in quality equipment will help you take better photos, but it is not necessary for beginners.

You can also find tutorials online to help you learn the basics of photography, such as composition and lighting. With a bit of practice, you can create stunning photos that will be cherished for years to come.

Visiting National Parks can be a great place to take quality pictures while hiking (and could even become a part-time job for some extra money!)
A senior African-American woman in her 70s enjoying the outdoors, hiking in a park, taking photographs. She is looking upward.

Cooking

Cooking is a fun and rewarding hobby that can also be a great way to entertain friends and family. You can start off by trying out new recipes and develop your skills in the kitchen. Or if you already know some of your favorite dishes, you can practice refining them.

Cooking can be a great way to relax and unwind. With the extra time you have in retirement, you can experiment with different cuisines, master the basics, or just enjoy the process of trying something new. You can also take cooking classes to learn the latest techniques and recipes. Whatever you choose to do, it is sure to be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Younger friends and old friends alike can come together over a delicious home-cooked meal.
Asian chinese family chinese new year reunion dinner having traditional dishes at dining table.

Knitting or Crocheting

Knitting and crocheting are both relaxing hobbies that can also be productive. You can make beautiful gifts for friends and family or even start a small business selling your creations. With a bit of practice, you can create almost any item you can imagine. From hats and scarves to sweaters, blankets and more, the possibilities are endless.

Not only are these activities enjoyable, but they help keep your mind sharp. With each stitch and each project, you are challenging and exercising your brain. Plus, the accomplishment of completing a project and seeing the final result can be very rewarding. In addition, knitting and crocheting offer a great opportunity to get together with friends and fellow hobbyists. It’s a wonderful way to stay connected, share your stories and make new friends.

You may be able to find classes or free courses online to get started with knitting.
A little girl sitting on sofa with her grandparents and learning to knit indoors at home.

Painting

Painting can be a great way to express your creativity and make beautiful pieces of art in retirement. You don't have to be an expert to get started, as there are many different tutorials and classes available for all skill levels. If you are just starting out, there are many online tutorials that can help you learn the basics of painting. You can even take a class at your local art supply store or community center to get an introduction to painting and learn more advanced techniques.

No matter what your skill level, there is something for everyone when it comes to painting. You can create stunning pieces of art to show off to your friends and family, or create something meaningful just for yourself. Painting can also be a great way to relax and de-stress after a long day. So if you're looking for a creative outlet in retirement, painting can be a great way to explore your creativity and make some beautiful works of art.

Painting could even become a second career in this new phase of your life.
Senior artist woman drawing at home.

Writing

Writing is an excellent way to express your thoughts and experiences. Retirement is a great time to start a blog or write a book. You can document your journey through retirement or share your life experiences with your family and friends. It can also be beneficial to keep a journal. Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and goals can help you stay focused on what matters to you.

Retirement is a wonderful time to explore new passions. Writing is a great way to do this. Whether you are looking for a way to connect with others, document your journey, or simply release your thoughts, writing can be a fulfilling activity. You can start a blog, write a book, or keep a journal. It’s up to you how you choose to express yourself. Writing can be a great way to stay productive, motivated, and engaged in retirement.

For more things to do in retirement, and in addition to writing, you could also join a book club.
Group of male and female friends, meeting for a book club, where they reading and discuss.

Stay Active

Retirement is the perfect time to focus on physical and mental health. Staying active is key to a healthy retirement, and there are many ways to do this. Going for regular walks or joining a walking group is a great way to stay in shape. If you're looking for something a bit more intense, you could look into joining a local gym and taking classes or using the gym's equipment.

Exercise isn't the only way to be active in retirement. Take up activities that keep your brain healthy, such as reading, puzzles, and games. Doing something that challenges your mind can help prevent cognitive decline and keep your thinking sharp. There are also many online resources and classes available to help you stay mentally active.

No matter what activities you choose, staying active in retirement is essential for both physical and mental health. Incorporating exercise and activities that challenge your mind into your daily routine can help you make the most of your retirement.

Physical health is extra important to maintain. Luckily, there are several leisure activities many retirees love to stay in their best shape.
Smiling female friends rowing boat in lake. Mature women are enjoying boating in forest. They are on vacations.

Metal & Woodworking

Woodworking is a great hobby for those who enjoy working with their hands and creating something from scratch. Whether you’re a beginner or a skilled craftsman, metal and/or woodworking is an activity that can bring hours of enjoyment and satisfaction in retirement.

From furniture to toys to decorative items, there’s no limit to what you can create. You can use plans and patterns to guide your project, or design something entirely of your own. You can even take classes or join a woodworking club to learn more skills and techniques. With the right tools and materials, you can make everything from birdhouses to cabinets to rocking chairs.

Metal and Woodworking are both challenging and rewarding. Not only will it help keep you active, but you’ll also have beautiful items to show off when you’re finished. Plus, you can even sell your creations if you choose to. So don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty in retirement and try woodworking as a hobby.

You could start be like the many small businesses to sell you crafts via an online Etsy shop.
Senior man using an angle grinder to create sculptures out of metal in his art studio.

Spend Time with Family Members

Family is a fundamental part of retirement, and there are many ways to enjoy it. One activity to try when you visit family is researching your family tree. Put your detective skills to work by finding out information about your family history, and even create a family tree.

Another great way to spend time with family in retirement is to mentor young people in your family or community. This is a great way to give back to those coming up in the world, and you can share your hard-earned knowledge and life experience. It can also be a wonderful way to connect with the younger generation and spend quality time with your own family.

Board games are a great way to connect with family of all ages. Try to plan a weekly or monthly session.
African grandfather sitting down with his grandson on his lap, teaching him how to play chess in Canada.

Volunteer & Make New Friends

Retirement is a great time to make meaningful connections with people in your community. Joining clubs centered around your hobbies and interests is a great place to start. Not only will it give you something to do, but you can make friends with people who have similar interests.

Additionally, taking volunteer positions at local charities, animal shelters, or special events is another great way to make extra friends. Social connections are incredibly important for your physical and mental health, so take advantage of the opportunity to form meaningful relationships.

Enrolling in community colleges can also be a great place to meet new people.
Mature student using digital tablet in adult education class.

Conclusion

Whatever your retirement plan, it's the perfect time to pursue activities and adventures that bring true joy, a sense of fulfillment and overall well being.

From engaging in hobbies, exploring new countries, spending time with family, to learning new skills, there are many great opportunities available to seniors that can help them maintain physical and mental health, build new relationships, and enjoy their golden years to the fullest!


Protect Your Loved Ones with a Final Expense Plan

Retirement is about more than just having fun; it’s also about financial planning for the future and leaving a secure legacy for your loved ones.

Taking control of your financial security with a final expense plan is the best way to ensure that your family is taken care of when you’re gone, and give you the peace of mind you need to truly enjoy your retirement.

With the right insurance policy, you can make sure that your loved ones are provided for and your legacy is secure.

Click the button below to get started now.

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