Senior man playing the piano with a senior woman watching

Prioritise your mental health in retirement

Saturday, 13 December 2025

It’s just as important to focus on your mental wellbeing as it is on your physical health.

Mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health, particularly in retirement. With around 45% of Australians experiencing a mental health condition during their lifetime, it's important to recognise how major life changes can affect your emotional wellbeing.

Retirement can bring uncertainty, loss and changes to routine, identity and purpose. As psychotherapist Marie Rowland from Talking Matters explains, "When you get to a certain age, say, post 65, your biggest concern becomes your health, because at some point you may lose the capacity to do things." For some, these changes to daily routine and decreasing opportunities for regular social interaction can lead to sadness, boredom, social isolation or depression, along with compounding physical impacts, especially when retirement is unexpected.

a group of seniors talking to each other

How can retirement living help?

Marie encourages people to acknowledge retirement as a form of loss while remaining open to new opportunities and meaningful activities. She also stresses the importance of speaking up about mental health challenges and seeking support when needed. Staying connected through community, volunteering or intergenerational activities can also help maintain a sense of purpose, self-worth and belonging later in life. Here are some ways to boost your mental wellbeing:

A senior lady sitting on a balance ball and leaning backwards as a form of exercise

1. Find your balance

Experts recommend aiming for at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days. This could include a variety of exercises focusing on fitness, strength, stability and flexibility - you could say it's all about a balanced approach! This can reduce the risk of falls and maintain mobility long term. Simple activities like heel-to-toe walking, leg raises and yoga poses can help improve stability and range of motion.

💡Did you know: Villages incorporate a range of classes and groups focused on health and wellbeing. You’ll find regular wellness classes tailored to seniors in many of our villages.

2. Have social interactions

A senior lady sitting with another younger woman on a couch with a cup of tea and chatting

"What social interaction does is lets you share the pain. And you deserve to be comforted and acknowledged. That's why therapy has become such a big thing nowadays because we don't take the time to genuinely validate each other. Everything is racing by. Children, grandchildren, life. Social interactions provide a genuine and meaningful connection but also slows life down to a rate that is compatible with your level of thinking and way of life. It's critical to reach out to your own family or support networks first. Because they can be the conduit to a practitioner who can help you," says Marie.

💡Did you know: Resident-led social committees organise regular community events, social gatherings and men's groups. From Friday night happy hours to an afternoon of musical entertainment, enjoying a laugh with neighbours was never so easy.

A group of seniors sitting around a table and knitting

3. Get involved

Be a part of a community can have a positive effect on your mental health and keep you physically active. Start by thinking about what interests you and ask around about groups to join. There might be a local walking group that meets every week or a class that you’ve always wanted to try. For some friendly competition, joining a sporting club like bowls, tennis or pickleball can be just the ticket. Volunteering for a cause you care about is also a great way to stay active and give back to the community.

💡Did you know: There’s a range of social groups and regular activities at all our retirement villages. From hobby sheds to community gardens, bowls teams to craft groups, there’s something for everyone to get involved, meet new friends and stay active.

4. Take time to rest

A senior lady sitting on a couch with a cup of tea relaxing and reading with a kindle

While getting active and staying connected is important for your wellbeing, it’s also important to take time out to rest. Don't underestimate the power of sleep on your overall wellbeing. Your body and mind need that time to recharge and rejuvenate. A good night's sleep is like pressing the reset button, helping you wake up feeling refreshed

Regular self care can also look after your mental and emotional wellbeing. Whether you love to curl up with a good book, take a leisurely bath, or simply close your eyes for a while, make sure to carve out time for yourself on a regular basis.

💡Did you know: Many of our retirement villages offer peaceful garden spaces, cosy libraries and quiet lounges, perfect for unwinding, reading or simply enjoying a moment of calm. Because looking after your wellbeing also means giving yourself time to rest and recharge.

a group of seniors laughing and playing law bowls

Ready to prioritise your mental health?

EXPLORE OUR VILLAGES

For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550 or send us an email here.

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Prioritise your mental health in retirement

It’s just as important to focus on your mental wellbeing as it is on your physical health.

How can retirement living help?

1. Find your balance

2. Have social interactions

3. Get involved

4. Take time to rest

Ready to prioritise your mental health?

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