Retirement is the perfect time to improve your quality of life. You don’t have to worry about the stress and strain of working and can focus on lifestyle changes that help you feel great.
However, it can be difficult to break from bad habits that you formed earlier in life, and forming new, healthy, habits may be intimidating.
Luckily, decades of bad habit-building can be reversed by taking it one step at a time. In the end, you’ll not only feel better for it, but your overall quality of life will improve.
Regular exercise is vital as you approach later life. Exercise can help mitigate stress, reduce your risk of Alzheimer's, and boost your self-esteem. However, if you’ve never exercised before, you may be intimidated by gym memberships and exercise classes.
Start on your own terms. Try low-impact workouts from the comfort of your own home or join an age-appropriate exercise group. Consider joining a local yoga class or Tai Chi group. Alternatively, you can work with a running group to choose a couch-to-5k program that suits your fitness levels.
You can also incorporate some outdoor activities to improve your health and quality of life. If you have a green thumb, join an allotment and share your produce with loved ones. Or, if you like seeing the great outdoors, search on social media for a walking group in your area.
Consider investing in a wearable like a smartwatch or a fitness tracker. New health wearables can improve your quality of life and give you extra insight into your health. This is particularly important as you age, as some trackers can spot heart murmurs and measure your blood pressure.
Adopting a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for your health. Eating a healthy, balanced diet in later life can increase your life expectancy by 7% and improve your energy as you age.
Sugar, in particular, can take quite a big toll on your health. Sugar is also addictive and increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. Given their addictive nature, however, it can sometimes be hard to cut it cold turkey. Consider switching sugar for replacement sweeteners, and opt for fruits and vegetables over cakes and sweets that are high in refined sugar.
If possible, try to increase your intake of calcium and iron. As you age, you’re at increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. A poor diet may also diminish your energy and leave you prone to infection. Try to eat foods like leafy green vegetables, tofu, eggs, and pulses. These can form the backbone of your diet and improve your quality of life by increasing your energy and resistance to illnesses.
Talk to your doctor if you’re considering dietary changes to improve your health as they can make suggestions based on your health history.
Depression and anxiety are normal when entering old age. You’re undergoing major life changes and you may find it hard to adjust. However, you can look after your mental health and improve your quality of life with a few simple changes.
If you’re feeling lonely or isolated, consider adopting a pet from your local rescue. Pets are great for your mental well-being and can renew your sense of purpose. Pets also encourage physical activity which can keep you physically strong and mentally sharp.
Take up a new hobby that forces you to socialize with others. Knitting, book clubs, and painting allow you to express yourself while interacting with other people. This can strengthen your ties to the community and help you build lasting friendships.
Retirement gives you the chance to focus on your own health and well-being. Try to start an exercise routine that you enjoy and leverage wearable technology to improve your workouts. Couple frequent exercise with a balanced diet to reduce your risk of illness and improve your mental well-being.
Sam Bowman writes about people, aging, wellness, and how they merge. He enjoys getting to utilize the internet for community without actually having to leave his house. In his spare time he likes running, reading, and combining the two in a run to his local bookstore.
It was a momentous occasion in Bradenton on May 1, 2025, as we welcomed a very special guest Ellie Hollander, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels America. Her visit was more than ceremonial; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service, and the vital work being done across Florida to nourish and support our seniors.Ellie flew in from the Washington, D.C. area as the keynote speaker for the Meals on Wheels Florida annual conference, proudly hosted this year by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Ellies schedule was packed, but that did not stop her from doing an interview with MySuncoast ABC-7 telling viewers how critical the meal program is to our homebound seniors. Next, Ellie hit the road and delivered meals to some of our senior clients and talked with our volunteers. Ellie also stopped by our Friendship Dining Center program, and participated in a music game the clients love.The Members of the Florida Chapter of Meals on Wheels America named Maribeth Phillips, our President & CEO, as their Board President earlier this year. Maribeth invited Ellie to attend and kickoff the conference. Ellie shared valuable insights with the members in attendance, and her words reenergized the room!The conference included meal providers from across the state, with over 20 different organizations attending. Attendees also heard from Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP, also from Washington, D.C.; Bradenton Police Detective, Jim Curulla on senior scams; Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Chief of Emergency Management Sarasota; Louise Gallagher on Senior Mental Health; and Jennifer Huber from FPL. Chef2Home provided a delicious breakfast and lunch.We are proud to be part of the national network of Meals on Wheels America and grateful to be a part of the state-wide chapter, Meals on Wheels Florida, both working every day to ensure no senior goes hungry.
As summer approaches, many children in our community are looking forward to sunshine, fun, and time with friends. But for far too many, summer brings something else-hunger.When school cafeterias close for the summer, thousands of local children lose access to the nutritious meals they depend on. Families already struggling to make ends meet are faced with even more pressure. The emotional toll is real. No parent should have to worry if they can feed their child, and no child should go to bed with an empty stomach.At The Food Bank of Manatee, we are stepping up to meet the need. We partner with over 100 local food pantries across Manatee County to reach the families who need us mostbut we cant do it alone.This summer, our goal is to provide: 22,500 meals each week across the 9-week summer break. Thats more than 200,000 meals for children and familiesand every dollar makes a difference.Just $15 provides 10 meals; $30 provides 20 meals; a gift of $150 will provide 100 meals!We know that many in our community want to make a difference. With your support, we can ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months.Please consider making a gift today and sharing this message with others who want to help too. A link to our page is below. A $25,000 Matching Gift to feed children this summer has been offered by an anonymous fund at Manatee Community Foundation. Gifts will be matched $1 for $1 up to $25,000.The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in our county. We anticipate continued need as families look for nutritional support. Your help matters now more than ever! Please give today!Together, we can bring relief, peace of mind, and full bellies to those who need it most.
On Monday, April 7, 2025, we had the joy and honor of hosting our annual Volunteer Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration dedicated to the incredible individuals who make our mission possible each and every day. Held in a spirit of gratitude and community, the event brought together volunteers with over 100 hours of service for a beautiful luncheon provided by Metz Chef 2 Home. The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to several outstanding volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service. From delivering meals with a smile to lending a helping hand wherever needed, these volunteers embody the true spirit of giving.The 2025 award recipients included:Champions Circle: Ten Years of ServiceDan WilhelmChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServiceTerri HillChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServicePat McDonaldOutstanding Food Bank Volunteer: Terri HillOutstanding Volunteer Ambassador: Veronica Brandon-MillerOutstanding Youth Volunteer: Jonathan MaassenMost Generous Group Ambassador: Lakewood Ranch Elks LodgeOutstanding Volunteer Group: First WatchOutstanding Administrative Volunteer: Barbara BrownOutstanding Friendship Dining Center Volunteer: Pam O ConnorOutstanding Car Loader: Charlie GunnOutstanding Warehouse Volunteer: Lana PaulRookies of the Year: Jeff and Christy MohlerOutstanding Daybreak Adult Day Center Volunteer: Larry BreidenbachOutstanding Telephone Reassurance Volunteer: Reina HuertaVolunteer of the Year: Terri HillTo every volunteer who gives their time and heartthank you. Our Volunteers are the reason we are able to serve our neighbors in need with care, dignity, and hope. We look forward to another year of making a difference together.
Stone River Retirement Community in Bradenton is a dream destination for those seeking a vibrant and fulfilling retirement lifestyle. The combination of sun-bleached beaches, a vibrant community, and rich cultural history creates an enchanting backdrop for residents to enjoy.The promise of world-class attractions in nearby Tampa Bay, the pristine Florida Keys to the south, and abundant natural beauty ensures that residents have endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.The all-inclusive nature of the community, catering to those aged 55 and above, reflects a commitment to providing a luxurious lifestyle where every need is met. From 24/7 service to resort-style dining and beautiful accommodations, residents can truly indulge in the finer things in life.Offering personal tours allows prospective residents to experience the magic of Stone River Retirement Community firsthand. With such enticing amenities and surroundings, it's no wonder that this community is sure to capture the hearts of those seeking a fulfilling retirement experience.
Stone River Retirement Community in Bradenton is a dream destination for those seeking a vibrant and fulfilling retirement lifestyle. The combination of sun-bleached beaches, a vibrant community, and rich cultural history creates an enchanting backdrop for residents to enjoy.The promise of world-class attractions in nearby Tampa Bay, the pristine Florida Keys to the south, and abundant natural beauty ensures that residents have endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.The all-inclusive nature of the community, catering to those aged 55 and above, reflects a commitment to providing a luxurious lifestyle where every need is met. From 24/7 service to resort-style dining and beautiful accommodations, residents can truly indulge in the finer things in life.Offering personal tours allows prospective residents to experience the magic of Stone River Retirement Community firsthand. With such enticing amenities and surroundings, it's no wonder that this community is sure to capture the hearts of those seeking a fulfilling retirement experience.