Emotions and Mental Health

Retirement often raises a big question: how can you keep your mind active? Research points to one habit that can be of great help: continuing to learn new things. Studies show that taking on new skills or hobbies helps the brain build fresh neural pathways, strengthening memory, focus, and problem-solving. Here, we’ll explore why learning … Read more

Retirees in their seventies often say they still feel mentally sharp and notice better memory, crediting simple routines they’ve practiced for years. Experts confirm that these everyday habits aren’t just anecdotal—science shows that consistent lifestyle choices can have a lasting impact on how the brain ages. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that about 6 million Americans … Read more

Smartphone apps and computer games that promise to “train your brain” are everywhere. They claim to boost memory, sharpen focus, and even slow cognitive decline. For older adults looking to stay sharp, this sounds appealing. But do they really work? The short answer is not as much as the marketing suggests. Harvard researchers and other … Read more

Anxiety often shows up as racing thoughts and constant “what ifs”. These thoughts can spiral into worst-case scenarios that feel overwhelming and impossible to escape, but psychologists say one simple phrase can cut through the noise and bring a sense of calm almost instantly. The psychologist Jeffrey Bernstein explains that asking yourself “What is the … Read more

Some people prefer quiet evenings with a book or a solo walk over crowded bars or nonstop social events. This preference for solitude isn’t necessarily a sign of being antisocial. Psychology suggests it can indicate strengths in thinking, emotion, and self-management. Researchers differentiate between loneliness—a painful sense of isolation—and voluntary solitude, which can be restorative … Read more

Sudoku, crosswords, and board games are the usual recommendations for seniors to keep the brain active, but there’s another lesser-known hobby that’s not played on paper or with cards. It’s a three-dimensional option to sharpen memory and concentration. 3D puzzles combine tactile movement, visual processing, and problem-solving in one entertaining challenge. Here, we’ll look at … Read more

Staying mentally active during your retirement years is just as important as keeping the body moving. Hobbies that engage the hands and the mind can provide stimulation while also offering relaxation. One activity, in particular, is once again becoming popular among older adults for this purpose: cross-stitch. In the sections ahead, we’ll look at what … Read more

Puzzles keep your mind busy, and gardening gets you outside, but there’s one quiet, hands-on hobby that has been proven to calm the nervous system, ease tension, and bring a steady rhythm back to your day. And it’s been around for generations. We’re talking about knitting. Whether done with needles, a crochet hook, or a … Read more

Reading clubs, crosswords, and puzzles get a lot of credit when it comes to keeping the brain active. But there’s another hobby—less talked about—that also supports focus, memory, and fine motor coordination. It’s relaxing, creative, and easy to learn at any age. We’re talking about crocheting, an activity that engages your hands and your mind … Read more

Staying mentally sharp after 65 can involve different activities, from doing crosswords to physical exercise. While walking and gym workouts help, there are other hobbies you can try out to keep your brain engaged, and one of the top ones is language learning. A growing number of older adults are picking up new languages not … Read more

Staying socially connected is important at any age, but especially after 65. Many older adults face isolation due to mobility changes, loss of loved ones, or simply fewer day-to-day interactions. While book clubs, volunteering, or church groups can help, the National Institute on Aging suggests something less expected: learning how to use email or social … Read more

For years, daydreaming was seen as a waste of time, something that we should snap out of. But psychologists and neuroscientists are now seeing it differently. New research shows that letting your mind wander may do far more good than harm. Daydreaming is not the same as zoning out. It’s when the brain slips into … Read more

When it comes to keeping the mind sharp in retirement, there are several widely recommended hobbies, including reading, dancing, and gardening. Research suggests there’s another hobby that may be even more effective at helping older adults maintain cognitive function. A study found that learning new, mentally demanding skills—like quilting—can boost memory and thinking in adults … Read more

When Charity Kreher and her husband decided to move their family from Oklahoma to Puerto Rico, they were expecting a change, not just in scenery, but in their day-to-day lives. They traded a large suburban home for an apartment in San Juan, unsure of what would come. Six months in, the shift in lifestyle has … Read more

Brain games and puzzles have long been a go-to way for older adults to stay mentally active. Sudoku, chess, and crosswords all have their benefits. But there’s another option that offers more than just mental stimulation. It involves creativity, hands-on learning, and a surprising level of fun. It’s STEM robotics. While it may sound like … Read more

As a retired professor and author of more than 180 books, Anthony Fredericks, 78, says his brain is still firing on all cylinders. The key, he says, is one simple habit he practices every single day. It’s not a supplement, a crossword puzzle, board games, or a brain game. It’s curiosity. Curiosity, Fredericks believes, is … Read more

If you’re over 65 and thinking about getting a pet to ease stress or feel less alone, it’s worth considering all your options. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, energy level, and what kind of companionship you’re looking for. One animal, in particular, offers comfort, calm, and connection without requiring too much effort. Here, … Read more

Anxiety and depression affect millions of people, and sometimes the simplest habits can offer relief. One of them can involve a little buddy that brings a nice presence into your life. Recent research points to a powerful connection between pet companionship and lower stress levels, especially in women. A study from Harvard found that having … Read more

As people age, their closets often shift toward darker, muted tones. Shades like navy, brown, and beige are seen as safe or “age-appropriate”. But there’s one color that can brighten your appearance, lighten your mood, and help you look more refreshed. That color is white. It might not be the first option you reach for, … Read more

Staying socially connected as you age is a crucial determinant of your long-term health. While physical activity such as walking, dancing, or water aerobics supports mobility and mood, the NIA highlights another powerful guard against isolation: forging meaningful connections through community involvement. Here, we’ll explore how participating in faith-based and interfaith groups can enrich seniors’ … Read more

Most people think of retirement as a time to slow down, but for many, it can also be a chance to try something new. There’s one hobby in particular that helps older adults stay mentally sharp, feel purposeful, and connect with others in meaningful ways. And surprisingly, very few give it a real shot. We’re … Read more

Retirement can be freeing in a way, but for many, it brings an unexpected emotional weight. While it marks the end of work-related stress, it also signals a major shift in routine, identity, and connection. Some older adults feel relieved, while others face a sense of loss. Psychologists have found that depression is quite common … Read more

Anxiety, depression, and stress-related symptoms are becoming more common among kids and teenagers. While books, games, and therapy all have their place, a new study highlights another activity that can help them and may be overlooked by some parents. That habit is physical activity. Regular, structured exercise can reduce these symptoms in children when it … Read more

Mental exercises like crosswords and word searches are great for keeping the brain active. But if you’re over 60 and looking to improve coordination and hand steadiness, there’s another hobby worth trying, one that works both the mind and the body in a simple, enjoyable way. That hobby is darts. It’s easy to set up, … Read more

Loneliness during the retirement period is an issue that can affect your health. While staying home with a book or the TV might help you pass the time, it’s not the kind of connection older adults need. That’s why the National Institute on Aging (NIA) recommends something different to help prevent social isolation. One suggestion … Read more

Playing chess has long been praised for keeping the brain sharp. It’s strategic, social, and deeply engaging. But there’s another hobby that might be even more effective when it comes to maintaining and improving cognitive function later in life. And unlike chess, this one gets your whole body involved. This activity is called exergaming—short for … Read more

When people talk about brain games for seniors, they often bring up Sudoku, crosswords, or word searches. Those are great, but there’s another game worth adding to the mix—one that combines strategy, memory, and social interaction. We’re talking about the card game pinochle. It may not be as instantly recognizable as bingo or Scrabble, but … Read more

For seniors over 70, staying socially engaged can have a big impact on their mental health. Besides social dance classes or volunteering, an activity that’s gaining attention for boosting emotional health, especially in older adults, involves connecting with younger generations. Here, we’ll look at how intergenerational activities—programs that bring seniors and youth together—can help older … Read more

To improve balance and coordination after 65, there’s a surprisingly fun, social, and engaging hobby that goes beyond classic activities like tai chi. It’s billiards. Yes, this game can be an effective and enjoyable way for older adults to stay sharp and steady during their retirement years. Billiards is low-impact, easy on the joints, and … Read more