25 Fulfilling Activities for Retirees

The stereotypical view of retirement involves long days with little to pass the time. This can be especially challenging if life was full and fulfilling before retirement. Thankfully, it doesn’t need to be like that. The world is changing—we are fitter and more capable in our old age than ever before, and we have an increasingly wide range of fulfilling activities for retirees of all ages.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of retirement is an abundance of free time, far more than ever before. As a parent in your 30s or 40s, the idea of a hobby might have seemed frivolous, but in retirement, adopting multiple projects, engagements, hobbies, or goals is entirely possible — even encouraged.

In this article, we explore 26 types of fulfilling activities for retirees. Not time-killers, but activities that you want to get stuck into.

See what activities catches your fancy from this list and give them a try. There’s no shame in giving up if it’s not for you, just move on to something else. The ultimate goal is the make the most of these precious retirement years.

Jump to section:

• What Makes an Activity ‘Fulfilling’?
• Retirement Activities Giving A Sense of Purpose or Contribution 
• Retirement Activities for Personal Growth
• Retirement Activities That Develop Positive Relationships
• Retirement Activities for Autonomy and Control
• Retirement Activities That Promote a State of Flow
• Retirement Activities that Provide a Sense of Balance and Wellbeing
• The Most Popular Hobbies 
• Don’t Talk Yourself out of It!
• How Simirity Can Help

What Makes an Activity ‘Fulfilling’?

We all know how it feels when we’re engaged in something truly fulfilling, and it can be a bit hit-and-miss. Fulfilment is different for all of us, but here are five main things to aim for:

1. Purpose/contribution: When what you are doing has a personal meaning. My parents volunteer at local attractions, helping with gardening and maintenance, and without their help, those establishments would really suffer.
2. Personal Growth: An online course, perhaps, or learning a new language. Setting challenges like these not only gives us a good mental workout, but also feels fulfilling as we can clearly see our progress over time. 
3. Positive relationships: Joining others, perhaps family, friends, or your local community, gives a wonderful feeling of being a part of something bigger than self.
4. Autonomy & Control: Where you are in the driving seat and are not reliant on others.
5. State of Flow: Activies where you are so in the moment that one hour miraculously becomes five. 
6. Balance & Wellbeing: Activities that bring about physical and mental health. 

Now, let’s look at practical ideas you can try out for each of these categories. 

Retirement Activities Giving A Sense of Purpose or Contribution 

While fun and entertainment can be enjoyable, they may not always provide the same sense of fulfilment that comes from doing something meaningful. Such activities can offer a deeper level of personal satisfaction.

The specific activities that bring this feeling of fulfilment can vary from person to person. However, they are typically aligned with the individual’s values and goals. Consider what kind of impact you want to make in the world. 

Even small gestures, such as participating in a community clean-up or volunteering for a cause you care about, can make a difference.

1. Exploring new interests

It’s never too late to explore new interests and fun hobbies.

As a senior, finding a new way to spend your time can enrich your life and bring new experiences. So what catches your attention? It might be arts and crafts related, such as crochet, painting or photography. Sports related such as golf, fishing or tennis.

After all these years, you finally have time to adopt new activities that interest you. 

2. Giving back to the community

Retirement is the time when many individuals look for ways to give back to the community.

One option is to volunteer at local organisations or non-profits. This not only provides a way to share one’s skills and experiences, but also creates social connection and a way to meet new people. You might also consider taking on a part-time job where you can positively impact your local community. Or, if you have skills and knowledge to share, give back by becoming a mentor or teacher.

Ultimately, giving back to the community can be fun and rewarding while also making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

If you are interested in exploring charities that would benefit from donations, the Charity Navigator website is a helpful resource. 

3. Volunteering opportunities

Now that you’re retired and working hours are no longer a barrier, you can help support local businesses, services, and charities that are meaningful to you.

Find fun things to do, whether it’s activities like gardening at stately homes or supporting. Or perhaps you would like to use your knowledge and experience on a project that matters to you. Get some ideas at VolunteerMatch. 

When you give to others, you give to yourself.

— Oprah Winfrey

4. Organise social events

Put your organisation skills to good use by helping organise social events for the local community. 

Choose something you’re interested in. You’ll bring others joy and get to know people better in the process. Start simple with one event and see how it goes. Here are some ideas:

1. Social gathering – coffee and cake for attendees.
2. Workshops and skill sharing – you could organise events where knowledge and skills are shared.
3. Walking groups.
4. Book clubs.
5. Fitness gatherings – such as yoga and tai chi.
6. Gardening projects – perhaps you can spruce up the neighbourhood with a community gardening project.

5. Home and garden

Investing time in your home and garden is a great way to stay active, and one of the best things about it is that it gives you a sense of accomplishment. It’s certainly not a bore, as younger people might think, and it ticks a lot more boxes than just achieving a sense of contribution.

6. Genealogy

If you don’t know history, you don’t know anything. You are a leaf that doesn’t know it is part of a tree.

Michael Crichton, American author.

Digging into your family’s history is one of those things that can really take off. So many interesting discoveries can lie in wait, which is why it’s an increasingly popular pastime. 

If researching your roots person-by-person is not appealing, you could try a DNA test. You can order a cost-effective saliva collection kit online and send it off to see what your DNA reveals. 

Exploring family history is a great way to spend your retirement. It gives you a sense of belonging, which is passed on to your children and grandchildren. It is a real accomplishment that will stand the test of time. 

There are wonderfully helpful tools you can use to research your ancestors and build your family tree. To learn more, visit this article about family history apps.

Retirement Activities for Personal Growth

Engaging in tasks that inspire us to learn new skills, enhance our abilities, and expand our knowledge can be really rewarding. Having the chance to grow and improve empowers us to evolve and reach our full potential.

7. Learning new skills

What did you want to learn but never had the time for? What is on your learning bucket list that you can finally tick off?

Once you’ve retired, the challenge of learning to play the piano or master conversational Spanish is now within reach. It’s also a great way to keep your mind in shape. Perhaps there are opportunities in one of the following:

1. Art and craft skills.
2. Gardening and horticulture.
3. Cooking and baking.
4. Writing and storytelling.
5. Learning an instrument.
6. DIY.
7. Technology and digital skills.
8. Languages. 
9. Sports.

8. Taking online courses

If you are on your own, one solo activity could be taking online courses. Some courses have a way to connect with others through an app or forums, which you can join. All this from the comfort of your own home. 

All you need is a computer, tablet or smartphone. Some courses are free, and others are paid for. Whether it’s a course about stock markets, gardening, cooking or chess, you’ll have days of fulfilling entertainment available on tap. Here are a few places to consider with high-quality courses:

• Masterclass and Udemy have courses about fascinating subjects from world-class experts, with everything from writing poetry to playing poker.
• Stanford University offers a wide range of free courses, including business skills but also science and natural history.
• Coursera has hundreds of business-related courses, many of which are available for free.

Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.

— Henry Ford

9. Travel

Travelling is a passion for many older adults.

There are so many fun activities available, both local and overseas. Beyond the adventure of travel itself, it’s also a great way to connect with others. And your trips needn’t cost the earth. 

For those who can afford it, a boat cruise is a fantastic option that gives even those with mobility issues a chance to access the world in a comfortable and supportive environment. If the idea of a vast cruise liner is not appealing, perhaps a smaller boat on a river cruise would be more interesting. Explore some options specifically for seniors at Travel and Leisure. 

Going on an organised tour can remove all the organisational burden while connecting you with like-minded travellers. 

View these great links to services specialising in travel for the over-50s. Hiking, biking, sight seeing, adventures, kayaking and tours taking in the best food and wine.

Another favourite that offers a home-from-home feeling is travelling by caravan, camper van, or motorhome. Travel at your own pace in your mobile home filled with all the home comforts.

Retirement Activities That Develop Positive Relationships

Sadly, retirement can feel lonely for some. Invest time and energy in relationships, even if it means going outside of your comfort zone occasionally. Whatever retirement activities you adopt, consider how you can use them as a springboard to connect with others. 

10. Ways to make new friends

Talk with the members of your local community to find out if there are events you could attend. Perhaps organised by retirement communities or by your local church. Look in the local magazines and flyers delivered to your door, as they often advertise local events.

There are many opportunities to connect with others online, from Facebook communities to the AARP community, with forums covering topics ranging from entertainment to caregiving. 

11. Spend time with family

Spending more time with family is a big benefit of retirement. 

Sadly, it’s not always possible. But even if your family live elsewhere and/or have busy schedules, modern technology can help. It’s different from quality time physically together, but it gives you the chance to connect daily with the people you care about. 

Learn more in this article on staying connected even if you live apart.

“In family relationships, love is really spelled T.I.M.E.”   

— Dieter F. Uchtdorf.

Retirement Activities for Autonomy and Control

For many, the middle part of our lives can be filled with responsibilities that are a drain on time. When you retire and your children have flown the nest, life is back under your control!  Consider setting retirement goals for yourself – a bucket list of things you would love to do. These are things that you have complete autonomy over and can progress at your own speed.

Here are ideas to help give that sense of autonomy and control in retirement. 

12. Part-time job options

Part-time job options can be an excellent opportunity for individuals who reach retirement age but still want to stay active in the workforce. And they have the added bonuses of: 

• Additional financial security.
• Meeting new people of all ages and walks of life.
• Staying mentally and physically sharp.

13. Learn about investments

Making wise investments is an art. A thorough understanding of business, industries, world news, trends, and so much more is needed to make a wise selection.

Perhaps you were always curious in your younger years but time never allowed. Retirement may be a good time to learn more about investments and the businesses and markets you find interesting. You needn’t invest a fortune; pursue it as an intellectual challenge that gives added meaning to the day’s world news. 

Here is a summary of the top investment apps to explore.

Retirement Activities That Promote a State of Flow

When in a flow state, you are entirely immersed in your task and lose track of time and self.

Only some things can lead to a state of flow. Research shows your activity should:

• Have clear goals.
• Provide immediate feedback so you can make adjustments and improve.
• Be challenging for you, but within your grasp.
• Require your concentration so you’re not easily distracted.
• Give you a sense of autonomy over the task.
• Not require excessive effort so you can continue for prolonged periods.
• Be motivating for you.

Here are a few ideas, but you must discover what works for you. Even washing dishes might get you there if you find such things motivating.

14. Crafting for creativity

Crafting activities are an excellent way to get into a flow state, as they offer the perfect mix of challenge, creativity, and engagement. Here are some crafting activities that retirees might enjoy to achieve this state:

• Knitting and Crocheting.
• Painting and Drawing.
• Woodworking and Carpentry.
• Pottery and Ceramics.
• Scrapbooking and Card Making.
• Quilting and Sewing.
• Jewelry Making.
• Model Building (e.g. ships, airplanes, cars).
• Gardening and Bonsai.
• Embroidery and Needlepoint.
• Calligraphy and Hand Lettering.
• Beading and Weaving.

Drawing makes you see things clearer, and clearer and clearer still, until your eyes ache.

David Hockney

15. Writing

Writing combines creative expression with mental stimulation, offering a profoundly engaging and satisfying experience. It invites you to explore and articulate your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a structured manner, which can be therapeutic and fulfilling.

Establishing a clear goal can be a great starting point, whether crafting a memoir, a short story, or simply keeping a daily journal.

16. Playing an instrument

Making music is a wonderful way to invest your day, merging creative expression with cognitive and motor skills. If you don’t already play an instrument, here are a few options that might be interesting:

• Ukulele: The ukulele is small, light, and has fewer strings than a guitar, making it easier to learn and play chords. It’s perfect for playing all sorts of music, from folk and pop to Hawaiian and jazz.
• Piano or keyboard: Learning the piano or keyboard gives you a strong understanding of music theory and allows you to play a wide variety of music. Keyboards often have built-in tutorials and accompaniment styles, making learning more fun and accessible.
• Guitar: Learning the guitar may be a bit tough at first, but it’s a joy and offers versatility in playing different styles and genres. Acoustic guitars are loved for their simplicity, while electric guitars let you explore various sounds and effects.
• Harmonica: The harmonica is small, affordable, and relatively easy to learn, making it a great choice for retirees. It’s used in different music styles like blues, folk, and rock and can be played solo or with a group.

17. Photography

Historically, photography was a hobby for the wealthy. Today, it’s accessible to everyone at little to no cost. Getting started is extremely easy, but there is so much to learn, which can be really rewarding.

And there are lots of different types of photography to explore, all with different skills to develop:

• Landscape Photography.
• Travel Photography.
• Wildlife Photography.
• Street Photography.
• Portrait Photography.
• Macro Photography.
• Architectural Photography.
• Still Life Photography.
• Documentary Photography.

Retirement Activities that Provide a Sense of Balance and Wellbeing

The greatest wealth is health.

Virgil

Unfortunately, achieving a balanced life and being mentally and physically fit does not happen by chance. Here are a few ideas to help you feel happy, calm, and emotionally content. 

18. Gardening for relaxation

Gardening must be one of the best all-around hobbies out there. Digging, planting, and seeing your plants grow is a true pleasure, and it is good for you physically and mentally. Plus, being outside in nature makes you feel relaxed and peaceful.

If you have a garden to experiment with, here are a few tips to get started:

• Start Small: Begin with a small garden bed or container garden to manage the workload and gain confidence as you learn.
• Choose the Right Location: Select a spot in your yard that receives adequate sunlight and has access to water. Consider factors like soil quality and drainage as well.
• Select Easy-to-Grow Plants: Opt for low-maintenance plants like herbs, tomatoes, lettuce, or flowers such as marigolds or zinnias that are well-suited for beginners.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about plant care, soil preparation, and gardening techniques by reading gardening books, using online resources, or joining local gardening clubs. 

19. Learning a new language

You live a new life for every language you speak. If you know only one language, you live only once.

Czech proverb

Our family has personal experience with this one, as we tackled learning French, Welsh, and Esperanto—all for fun, no other incentive required. You don’t have to become a native speaker—even the most basic levels are great achievements and really keep the brain ticking over.

There are engaging (even addictive!) apps like Duolingo that can teach you many languages for free. Duolingo has daily quizzes where you compete against other app users to progress through proficiency levels. And when you’ve learned one, the next is so much easier.

If tackling a new language alone is intimidating, why not make it a venture with someone else? Perhaps you’ll even justify a holiday to practice your skills…

20. Get in shape

You might not be 18 any more, but committing to regular exercise can boost your physical capabilities tremendously. And when you feel decent in your skin, your mood and energy levels are boosted too.

There are lots of ways to get in shape, but if in doubt, regular exercises will work wonders. Here is a collection of exercises aimed at seniors.

21. Walks in nature

As everyone knows, walking is one of the best ways to get in shape. Few activities can refresh and rejuvenate both body and mind like a good walk in nature. And it doesn’t have to be too strenuous—go at your own pace and take in the scenery.

22. Puzzles 

Puzzles are a fun workout for the brain and a welcome distraction from everyday stresses. 

Whether it’s a crossword, Sudoku, or jigsaw puzzle, working on puzzles challenges your brain and helps improve memory and cognitive skills. Plus, a sense of satisfaction comes with completing a puzzle and figuring out those tricky clues.

For online jigsaws try Jigsawplanet and for online games try Sixtyandme.

23. Reading 

Reading is a great way to keep your brain engaged and sharp, reducing the risk of cognitive decline as you age. 

Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or even magazines and newspapers, there’s something out there for everyone to enjoy. And the best part? You can read anytime, anywhere, making it the perfect way to unwind and escape into a world of endless possibilities.

If accessing books is tricky, consider a digital ebook reader like the Kindle by Amazon. Thousands of books are available to download and read right away. And they cost less than the physical book, so savings can be had. There is something magical about books you can hold, but one of the significant advantages of ebook readers is that you can adjust the font size and type to make it easy on the eyes. They even have backlights so you can read them in bed without disturbing others.

If reading is problematic, you can always listen to books on services like Audible or Spotify (which specialises in music but also offers subscribers access to audiobooks).

A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies . . . The man who never reads lives only one.

— George R.R. Martin

24. Sport

Sports are an enjoyable way to keep fit and socialise. Joining a local club or team can give a sense of camaraderie while boosting your motivation to keep going. Plus, the endorphins released during physical activity help boost your mood and reduce stress, making you happier and more relaxed.

Here’s a list of popular sports with retirees:

• Golf: A low-impact sport that provides both physical activity and social interaction.
• Swimming: Improves cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility while reducing the risk of injury.
• Cycling: A low-impact aerobic exercise that strengthens the legs and improves cardiovascular health. 
• Tennis: A fun and social sport that provides a great cardiovascular workout while improving agility, coordination, and flexibility.
• Bowling:  A fun way to stay active, socialise with friends, and improve hand-eye coordination.
• Tai Chi: A gentle martial art that focuses on slow, flowing movements and deep breathing. It improves balance, flexibility, and mental well-being while reducing stress and anxiety.
• Dancing: Whether it’s ballroom, line dancing, or salsa, there’s a style of dance for everyone to enjoy.

25. Adopt pets

Your retirement years can be a great time to adopt pets. A loving pet can be great company and will encourage you to go out in nature for walks. You don’t need to adopt a young animal – there are plenty of elderly ones in need of a loving home.

Animals are reliable, many full of love, true in their affections, predictable in their actions, grateful and loyal: Difficult standards for people to live up to.

— Alfred A. Montapert

The Most Popular Hobbies 

So what are most retired people doing to feel fulfilled these days? Research suggests the following trends in the US.

1. Continued education. 
2. Crafting.
3. Walking. 
4. Sport (biking, golf).
5. Fishing.

Don’t Talk Yourself out of It!

Whether you’re a fit and able retiree or with restricted mobility, a range of activities can match your needs. Here are three tips to keep in mind as you consider your next steps.

Tip 1 – Age is just a number 

For some people, reaching retirement age is not something to celebrate. There are so many things to do in retirement. Take the time to figure out what really excites you, and don’t talk yourself out of it.

Being retired does not limit you as much as you might think – the retired life may look very different to what you imagined. Here are some incredible retirees who refuse to be defined by their age. 

Tip 2 – Experiences over outcomes

It’s not about becoming the best cake baker, painter, or Spanish speaker. The fulfilment is in the journey, not the destination. Commit to giving it a go and being one step ahead of where you stand today.

Tip 3 – Let curiosity trump logic

We can reason ourselves out of anything surprisingly easily…

Learning to play the trumpet might not seem like a logical thing to do. Who am I going to play for? What’s the goal? It’s too noisy! Try not to let rational thoughts reason with your curiosity. 

After all, if you don’t give it a go now, then when?

It’s time for you to reread the list of activities above and remember these three tips so you don’t unduly discredit any.

Whatever activities you choose, we wish you and your loved ones a truly fulfilling and happy retirement. 

How Simirity Can Help

There is one other venture that’s perfect for you and your whole family. It ticks all the boxes about what makes an activity fulfilling:

• It gives you a sense of purpose.
• You can contribute to something significant and enduring.
• You will face creative challenges, but nothing you can’t overcome.
• It will strengthen your relationships with your family.
• It gives you autonomy and control, so things happen at your own pace.
• And there’s a good chance you will enter a flow state.

Sadly, it won’t do much for your physical wellbeing, so you’ll still need to do those situps!

We’re talking about using the Simirity App, which we built to address our own family’s needs. 

Simirity App is a private storytelling app that unites all generations of your family in stories, even if you live apart.

Over time, your entire family can build an archive of digital stories, connecting family members in real-time and creating a story legacy that welcomes future family. 

My father wrote this article about his experience using Simirity during retirement.

If you would like to learn more about the Simirity app, visit our home page.