For many, retirement represents a time to relax, pursue hobbies, and enjoy life on one’s own terms. However, an 85 yearlong Harvard study, one of the longest-running studies on happiness, reveals that the key to happiness in retirement is not just about having more free time. It’s about maintaining a fulfilling social life. This insight offers a valuable lesson for those planning their retirement years and highlights the importance of cultivating and maintaining meaningful relationships.
The Harvard Study’s Surprising Findings
The Harvard Study of Adult Development began in 1938 and has followed more than 700 participants for over eight decades, tracking their physical and emotional well-being, relationships and careers. As participants transitioned into mid- and late life, the study increasingly focused on their retirement experiences. One of the most significant findings was that the primary challenge retirees faced wasn’t financial stress or health issues; the loss of social connections was integral to their work lives.
These social connections, which often included coworkers, clients and even the routine of daily interactions, contributed to a crucial sense of purpose and belonging. Without work-related interactions, many retirees reported feelings of loneliness and isolation, which negatively impacted their overall happiness.
How Life Plan Communities Can Help
While the Harvard study underscores the importance of social connections in retirement, it also suggests a solution: Life Plan Communities, like Montereau, are designed to address this exact challenge. These communities offer a lifestyle that fosters social engagement, physical activity, and emotional wellness, which are essential components of a happy and fulfilling retirement.
Social Connections and Life Satisfaction
The third year of the Age Well Study, which focuses on the well-being of residents in Life Plan Communities, found that social interactions are vital for life satisfaction. Life Plan Communities provide daily opportunities for social engagement through events, clubs, classes, group activities and dining. Whether it’s sharing a meal in the dining room, participating in fitness classes, or joining a book club, these interactions help residents build and maintain the relationships that contribute so significantly to a healthy and happy life.
In fact, the Age Well Study revealed that even the lowest-scoring retirees who lived at a Life Plan Community rated their happiness and life satisfaction at 4.6 on a seven-point scale, with half of them giving it a six or higher. This indicates that the community’s focus on socialization plays a significant role in boosting residents’ emotional well-being.
Diet and exercise make a difference.
In addition to social connections, the Age Well Study found that physical activity and a healthy diet are strongly associated with greater happiness in retirement.
Montereau understands this connection and offers a comprehensive wellness program that includes fitness classes, personal trainers and wellness coaching. Residents also enjoy delicious, nutritious meals prepared by professional chefs who work closely with dietitians to create balanced menus that support overall health.
This emphasis on wellness not only keeps residents physically healthy but also contributes to their mental and emotional well-being. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, while a healthy diet ensures that residents have the energy and vitality to engage in community events as well as their own favorite activities and diversions.
“I’m retired now. What’s next?”
As you plan for retirement, consider the importance of these factors and how a Life Plan Community might help you enjoy retirement to the fullest. At Montereau, we pride ourselves on being “Tulsa’s friendliest senior living community.” In a beautiful setting, among casual elegance, you’ll find a lifestyle of activity and connection that checks all the boxes for a fun and fulfilling retirement.
To learn more about the daily experience, peruse our robust activities calendar and read our newsletter on our Lifestyle page. Better yet, schedule a personal tour using the form on this page or call us at (918) 495-1500.