Technology makes it easy to learn languages from a laptop, tablet or smartphone. Whether you want to prepare for a trip to another country or challenge yourself and learn a new skill, get started with a language-learning app. Babbel and Duolingo are popular choices for learning vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation. Work your way through some lessons, and you'll be able to say more than bonjour, hola and ni hao ("hello" in French, Spanish and Chinese) by the time spring rolls around.
If you've always wanted to get fit, take part in one of the exercise programs offered at our senior living community or work out in your assisted living apartment. Online classes and fitness videos can guide you through exercises for flexibility, strength and balance. Seniors can find winter a challenging time, but by staying active, you can improve your mood and feel your best.
Curl up with a cup of tea this winter and make your way through books you've always wanted to read. You can compile a list from the greatest books of all time or the New York Times Best Sellers list. Check off each title as you complete it to track your progress. Remember, reading should be enjoyable. If a book isn't resonating, it's okay to put it aside. To make reading more social, organize a book club with your neighbors at Bethesda Gardens Arlington to share opinions and stimulate discussion.
Volunteering is a meaningful way to contribute to society. Local charities, churches and organizations often welcome help from community members to keep their initiatives running. Consider volunteering at the Arlington Museum of Art as a gallery attendant or working in the gift shop at Arlington Memorial Hospital. Arlington Public Library also has opportunities for older adults to work alongside library staff.
If you feel like it's hard to keep up with technology, brush up on your digital literacy skills. Websites like Tech Life Unity are designed for beginners, with tutorials on using computers, smartphones, social media and the internet. For in-person learning, check out the technology classes at Arlington Public Library. Even better, ask your tech-savvy friends and family for one-on-one help and combine a social visit with personalized learning.
Try your hand at indoor gardening and cultivate your own patch of nature in your senior living apartment. You'll not only create a soothing environment but also enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing your plants and watching them flourish. Succulents, snake plants, pothos and ZZ plants are low-maintenance options and easy to grow. For a splash of color, opt for African violets and orchids. You can even grow vegetables indoors, including hot peppers, lettuce and microgreens.
It might seem daunting to write a memoir, but it's simply a way to reminisce about key moments in your life. Start with a simple sentence, such as, "My first job was..." or "My favorite holiday tradition was..." and see what memories flow. Set aside a regular time to work on your memoir, whether you like writing in the comfort of your apartment or a common area at Bethesda Gardens Arlington. Before you know it, you'll have a collection of funny stories and lessons learned to pass on through the generations.
If you enjoy drawing, painting and crafts, express your creativity by making handmade greeting cards. You can design cards for birthdays and holidays and give them out during the year as keepsakes. All you need is a package of blank white cards and envelopes and some inspiration. Use your favorite materials: watercolor paints, colored markers and pencils or stamps and ink. It's not necessary to have drawing abilities, either. Take an abstract approach with patterns and designs, or embellish cards with ribbons, dried flowers and beads.
Learning doesn't stop after retirement. In fact, it's the perfect time to expand your knowledge and explore new passions. Senior Planet is a great place to start — you can take online courses, join discussions and listen to lectures and presentations. Khan Academy offers free lessons on academic topics, including science, math, computing, art and humanities, and economics. With a paid membership to Craftsy, you can access classes and instructional videos in disciplines such as photography, knitting and drawing.
Life gets busy, and before you know it, months have gone by since you last chatted with loved ones. One of the best ways to spend time this winter is to schedule regular interactions with family and friends. If they're in Arlington, meet at a local cafe or our senior living community. You can also arrange video calls to stay in touch with those who live across the country. Social connections are essential for well-being and a sense of belonging, so make a point of getting together in person or virtually to share stories and bond.
