Most seniors look forward to retirement and have visions of a carefree life without the burden of schedules and tedious obligations. As we approach this golden age, much of our time and energy is spent worrying about our financial strength. Do we have enough money to support ourselves for the rest of our lives? However, very few seniors prepare for the new found gap in created from retirement. This is especially true for those people who were very involved with their work. This gap and sense of loss can later result in us being disenchanted with retirement. Is this all there is? That's why it's important for us to develop leisure skills to keep us involved in the community and active in our lives.



Making it through the honeymoon phase of retirement is easy. Seniors experience this euphoric energy brought on by the new found freedoms in life. Many seniors, of course, experience extensive traveling during this period. Eventually, however, we fall into a routine. This may be weeks or a few years after retirement. Now we have the danger of falling into the disenchantment phase of retirement. This can be brought on by poor health, loss of a spouse, having little money, feeling like there are few alternatives, and many more. This is where our leisure skills can help keep us healthy and satisfied with our retirement. Staying involved in the community and participating in events can add great enjoyment to our lives and avoid the danger of socially withdrawing which can accelerate the development of illness or disabilities. Some of the places seniors can stay connected with the community are their local senior centers, volunteering and religious organizations. Your local senior center can be a great source for staying involved. Many sponsor clubs, exercise, social events, and travel groups. It's best to develop these leisure skills as early as possible because seniors find it more challenging to get involved as time passes and run a greater risk of withdrawing. Make an effort to stay connected with your friends and social network and get the newsletter from your local senior center and religious organizations. These can greatly improve your quality of life and offer support during your retirement and periods of change.