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How to have an epic retirement

DI Cafe Residents 4
How to have an epic retirement
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Retirement is a real turning point in life, giving you the freedom to dive into new adventures, explore fresh hobbies, and find joy in ways you might’ve put on the backburner during the busy years of work and family life. It’s your time to focus on what makes you happy.

With stunning landscapes, a laid-back lifestyle, and that classic Aussie culture, Australia is the perfect spot to make the most of your retirement. At Ryman Healthcare, you’ll get top-notch independent living options and exceptional care, all within a vibrant, supportive community of like-minded people.

How to live an epic retirement?

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An epic retirement is all about grabbing the right opportunities with both hands and a good dose of enthusiasm. It’s about living with purpose and making the most of your time by diving into what truly excites and energises you.

Maybe you’re keen to travel, make new friends, or perhaps there’s a hobby or activity you’ve always wanted to try. Well, now’s your time to do it. For some, retirement doesn’t mean stopping work entirely. If you love what you do, an epic retirement might involve working part-time, volunteering, or even kicking off a fresh career you’re passionate about – such as turning a hobby into a business.

While everyone’s idea of an epic retirement is different, there are a few things that many retirees find make all the difference to their happiness during this exciting new chapter.

Tips for an epic retirement

Explore hobbies and learning opportunities

When you retire, you may have more free time on your hands, and picking up enjoyable hobbies or trying new interests can stop boredom from creeping in and give you a sense of purpose. 

Pursuing hobbies and discovering new passions will:

  • Keep your mind sharp 
  • Help you feel fulfilled
  • Reduce stress 

Retirement is the perfect time to:

  • Learn new skills or explore things you’ve always wanted to try such as painting, swimming, or learning an instrument. 
  • Do activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles and learning new languages. These can help to keep your mind agile.

At Ryman, it’s easy to dive into new experiences or rediscover old favourites – and meet new friends and neighbours to share them with. Just like Neil and David, who met in a Ryman village and now regularly head off together for fly-fishing trips.

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Build and maintain social connections

Whether you’re the life of the party or prefer a quiet chat over a cuppa, staying connected with friends and family is key to a happy, fulfilling retirement. Hobbies are a great way to build that sense of community, whether you’re joining a local group or just sharing your passion with others. These social connections make you feel like you belong and can really boost your overall well being.

At Ryman villages, you’ll find a friendly, welcoming community with plenty of social events, interest-based groups, and chances to connect with others – making it easier to build a solid network of friends to spend time with. 

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At one Ryman village, some residents have even formed a travel group, and they love heading out on all sorts of adventures, from dinners to day trips to multi-day getaways. They all agree that living in the village makes travel a breeze – no worries about mowing the lawn or collecting the mail while they’re away, and security is never a concern. Plus, those who’ve lost loved ones or have partners in care have found a new circle of friends in the group.

Keep active for wellbeing

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Staying active, both physically and mentally, is key to maintaining good health and making the most of your retirement. Regular active activities can lift your energy levels and put a smile on your face - these could include: 

  • Walking 
  • Dancing 
  • Swimming 
  • Yoga

Living in a retirement village gives you easy access to fitness facilities, wellness programs, and mental enrichment activities – all designed to help you stay fit and active. For example, Ryman’s Triple A (Ageless, Active, Aware) exercise program is available to all Ryman residents. It’s specially designed for older adults, based on the idea that you’re never too old to exercise – it’s all about finding what works for you and, most importantly, that you enjoy.

Some epic destinations in Australia

Australia is a dream destination for retirees, with a mild climate, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, excellent healthcare, and retirement-friendly amenities, not to mention endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

At Ryman, we make retirement living even better with conveniently located villages that offer security, premium amenities, and easy access to local attractions. Our villages are vibrant, connected communities where you can lock-up and leave to hit the road.

Drive the Great Ocean Road

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The Great Ocean Road is a stunning stretch of coastline that’s perfect for retirees looking to explore the beauty of Australia at a leisurely pace. With its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming seaside towns, it offers endless opportunities for exploring. Whether you’re taking in the stunning view of the Twelve Apostles, relaxing on a quiet beach, enjoying a pint in a quaint seaside inn, or exploring the lush rainforests in nearby national parks, the Great Ocean Road offers something for everyone. Its well-maintained facilities make it an ideal destination for retirees who want to enjoy nature, culture, and outdoor activities without the rush.

Explore Melbourne

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Melbourne is a vibrant cultural hub that offers something for everyone, whether you're a fan of exploring art galleries, sports, dining at top-tier restaurants, or indulging in the excellent shopping. With its relaxed yet cosmopolitan atmosphere, the city offers an abundance of parks, gardens, and picturesque walking trails, ideal for those who enjoy staying active.

Ryman offers several retirement villages throughout Melbourne, and no matter which you choose, you’ll experience the finest in retirement living. Each of our Melbourne communities provides a variety of activities and amenities, and some have heated indoor pools, all-weather bowling greens, cinemas, cafes, and more.

Hop over to Tasmania

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Tasmania offers you a blend of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and rich history, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing yet adventurous getaway. With its pristine beaches, stunning national parks, and charming heritage towns, Tasmania invites exploration at a leisurely pace. You can enjoy scenic drives through lush landscapes, visit historic sites like Port Arthur, or take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Whether you’re enjoying fresh local produce at farmers' markets, relaxing by tranquil lakes, or hiking gentle trails, Tasmania offers an escape that rejuvenates both body and spirit.

An epic retirement at Ryman

A fulfilling retirement that makes the most of your retirement years can be achieved through: 

  • planning financially, emotionally, and mentally, 
  • staying healthy, 
  • maintaining a sense of purpose, 
  • staying engaged with life, and
  • embracing the opportunities that retirement presents for personal growth, connection, and adventure.

An epic retirement at Ryman

At Ryman, we're here to support your epic retirement. Like any chapter in life, the choice is yours in how you spend it. When you’re not entertaining family and friends at your village, you can take off on holiday knowing your home is safe and secure. Or choose to relax at home where our activity and lifestyle coordinators maintain a schedule of social events, hobby groups, and day trips for you to pick and choose. If you’re seeking peace and quiet, there’s solitude with a garden view around every corner and you can bring your furry friend to the village with you.

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Start planning your epic retirement today

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Whatever age, whatever stage, life is for exploring, especially now you have the freedom to choose your ideal retirement lifestyle. Rediscover lost passions or plunge headfirst into new ones, embark on adventures or put your feet up and appreciate the little things. This is your time and we’re here to help you enjoy it.

When people visit Ryman villages, they often tell us they feel the difference. There’s something in the way our residents and village teams interact, their energy and enthusiasm. Add beautiful homes, a bustling social calendar, and premium amenities and you’ll understand why our village communities are described as thriving.

Our expert team are here to help guide residents through the retirement planning process, and we offer independent living, assisted living, and a range of care options, to help with a smooth and stress-free transition into retirement living.

Contact Ryman Healthcare on 1800 314 425 or message us for more information on how to create your own epic retirement.

by Christine McCurdy | Feb 27, 2025

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In the spirit of reconciliation Ryman Healthcare acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community.
We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

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