Retirees joke about every day being a vacation, yet they continue to collect one travel brochure after another and suddenly they’re off on another trip.
Maybe holidays are more important than ever? Experts say a vacation is not necessarily a panacea for seniors, yet it can help relieve some of that day-to-day tedium (even if temporarily).
Stan Hibbs, PhD, psychologist and life coach in Dunwoody remains in private practice and enjoys his share of travel, too.
“I think retired people can get into a rut as easily as working people, so taking a vacation is good for them as well,” said Hibbs in an interview with Atlanta Senior Life. “Often people see retirement as great opportunity to travel more.”
At 70, Hibbs reminds us he’s in a profession in which wisdom and experience are of great value. Almost 11 percent of practicing psychologists in American are over 65 years old, states Hibbs.
Many retirees will tell you, they are “working and volunteering more” in retirement than they did in their previous lives. They need a rest.
Psychologist Irene S. Levine, well known as ‘The Friendship Doctor,’ says she agrees that traveling is important. And travel certainly agrees with her.
Levine provides respected advice as a relationship columnist and contributor to recognized publications, such as Psychology Today. She explains the importance of travel.
“It helps keeps us vital by expanding our world, introducing us to new people, places and things,” she said via email. “This marked change from daily routines (which tend to get tedious and boring) is bound to add a hefty dose of joy and renewed energy to our lives.”
It also helps older adults forget about, or at least temporarily suspend, minor pains and worries. But what if finances are somewhat tight? Not all seniors can fund their dream trip to Europe.
Levine has an answer. “Travel doesn’t necessarily have to be exotic or costly,” she said. “There are always new adventures to be found closer to home. It can be walking in a park, a nearby museum or even dinner at an ethnic restaurant [nearby].”
Writer Jill L. Ferguson talks about the benefits of taking a vacation, too. In her article “Health Benefits of Taking a Vacation,” she offers information and guidance.
Ferguson is the founder of Women’s Wellness Weekends, an organization created to provide an oasis of rest and recharging, according to the website. She encourages mixing work with fun to her cohorts.
She left in May for a 16-day vacation, and Ferguson said she will “still be answering emails and writing an article or two but also be exploring ancient ruins, eating fine food, snorkeling and making new friends.
“I travel frequently and often mix business and pleasure,” she said.