Aging retirees that partake in spiritual activities after joining retirement communities in Norristown, PA will gain a number of benefits, which are highlighted below.
Greater Longevity
Those that continue to actively involve themselves in spiritual or religious pursuits after retirement have been found to live longer than those who do not. This greater longevity is believed to be the result of multiple factors, including higher stress reduction which leads to improved health as well as regularly socializing with others that eliminate feelings of loneliness. It is believed by researchers that religious people tend to be at lower risk of cardiovascular problems. This could be because many religions promote a healthier lifestyle with specific dietary restrictions.
Improved Outlook and Mood
Research has strongly indicated that those who engage in religious practices gain a better outlook on life. This is true even when they or their loved ones are beset by illness or other hardships. Attending religious services also gives elders the opportunity to socialize with others and form friendships.
Being Part of a Community
When an elder is a member of a specific denomination or religious group, they rarely feel alone, even if they are physically. This is because they know there are lots of other people around the world that share the same views, perhaps millions. And with advances in communication technology such as the internet, such individuals always have access to lectures, videos, social networks and forums where they can ask questions, interact with other religious members and learn more. This gives meaning to their lives as well as satisfaction.
Sense of Purpose
After one retires and transitions away from their career, it becomes necessary to have new methods for engagement, encouragement and exploration. Spirituality could play a significant role in this process, because it brings structure and understanding to your life. It also gives elders the opportunity to connect with something that is bigger than themselves, and they will also be given the opportunity to aid those who are less fortunate which creates fulfillment.
Sense of Hope
The importance of hope cannot be overstated. Encountering challenges which arise in your life after retirement may be very difficult to manage, and without having a spiritual foundation, it can be easy to give up. But those who are religious and spiritually minded will have a much stronger support base which will help lift their spirits even during dark times, partly because connecting to their faith provides hope and a mental boost.
Greater Health and Brain Power
In most major religions, members are expected to forego certain foods, beverages and activities. Adhering to these guidelines will naturally lead to much greater health when compared to non-religious people, which when combined with physical fitness greatly reduces the chances of serious illness. But spirituality might also play a role in preventing cognitive decline, and may stabilize elders who already have cognitive disorders. Improving ones mental capacity is crucial as it benefits every area of life in turn, from daily activities to personal relationships with others.
