Free time, whether you have only one or more than six hours a day, what you do with this unstructured time is a question many people ponder. The answer becomes even more important if you are a senior who has not worked outside the home for some time. Initially this free time might seem like a welcomed gift; finally, an unstructured period to pursue a childhood hobby. But eventually, the thought of unending free time can become daunting and even depressing. At American Lifetime, we understand that it’s important to research and plan how to make best use of your free time. We are an integral part of that process thanks to a unique tool: our day-of-the-week clock. This digital time-keeping device is helping our users plan their unstructured time, and as a result it has provided them a surprising degree of comfort and security.

What do you want from your free time?

In truth, there are no wrong answers to that question. If you are a person who loves the chance to read a book from cover to cover uninterrupted, then large periods of free time might be perfect for you. But if you are a social bee, someone who enjoys interacting with friends over a meal, then spending several days alone might make you miserable and leave you craving for activity and interaction. When faced with the prospect of free time, whether it is a new idea or old, it’s important to consider what you want most out of it. Now is the time to put pen to paper. Start sketching an outline of what you want out of this period in your life.

Why it’s important to plan your free time?

Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, studies have shown that seniors who plan their free time with approximately three to four regular activities per week are happier and generally more productive than those who do not. Remaining engaged both physically and mentally has also shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s in seniors. That’s why we feel there is no better time than now to start examining the different types of free time activities. And with the help of our day-of-the-week clock, you’ll be able to stay on track and not miss an activity! Below are a few suggested activities to help you structure your free time.

Activity #1: Part-time Work

Whether you are financially stable in your retirement or in need of a small regular income, the idea of part-time work might be very appealing. Finding a job in either your former profession or in a domain completely unrelated to your training is up to you. Ideally, your new part-time job will be less stressful and demanding than the career you had previously. To make this transition into the workforce (albeit part-time) easier, our digital day-of-the-week clock ensures you will never miss a day or shift of work. From learning a new job, to interacting with customers, the initial demands of the job will be intense. Let us help with our day-of-the-week clock. By using it, you will be confident in accurately knowing the day of the week. From there you can focus on the job at hand.

Activity #2: Exercise

Are you someone who enjoys taking a yoga class? Or maybe walks around the block with your neighbors are more your style? Whatever, type of exercise most appeals to you, we all know it’s important to participate in regular physical activity. The mental and physical advantages of exercise are numerous. We can help you stay committed to your regular activity with our day-of-the-week clock. Never again will you forget what day you’re supposed to meet your walking group or when your favorite class is taught at the local gym. Our day-of-the-week clock displays the correct day in bold letters automatically helping you focus your attention on the activities for that period. Let us help you stay committed to your health!

Activity #3: Socialize

We’ve all told friends at some point, “let’s get together for coffee” only to have that wish evaporate as the demands of day-to-day life, family and work supersede any kind of social activity. But if you are a senior who has been retired for some period of time, the idea of meeting friends for coffee has taken on a new meaning in your life. Today, doctors know that socializing has unmistakable positive effects on memory and cognition, from improving memory to delaying the onset of dementia. Not to mention the ways socializing can stave off depression and the general feelings of loneliness associated with aging. That’s why it is critical to arrange regular social outings whether it is for a meal or even for a quick coffee. At American Lifetime our day-of-the-week clock can help you fulfill your regular social outings. With its clear display screen, the chance that you will forget which day it is and thereby miss a social date, is eliminated. Thereby allowing you to focus on what is most important: developing strong social bonds.

One final thought

For many, free time is initially welcomed with open arms. But over a period of time, those unending unstructured hours can become worrisome and scary. That’s why it’s important to plan your free time. Whether you have a few hours a week or a few per day, how you spend it can affect both your physical and emotional well-being. At American Lifetime, we may not be able to help you schedule your free time, but we can certainly help you adhere to your new routine. Thanks to our day-of-the-week clock, you won’t miss a movie outing with your grandchildren, or your exercise class at the gym. Our clock is designed goal to support our users, so that they can get on with enjoying their free time.