Hobbies for Couples That Build Joy and Connection

Once you and your spouse, significant other, or partner have both retired, it is clear that you are entering a new phase in your life. According to Gransnet, retirement can significantly affect marriage as couples learn to function in a completely different manner than they are accustomed to. 

Finding meaningful pastimes is a wonderful way to connect with your partner in your senior years. With more free time and fewer responsibilities, you'll have endless options when it comes to exploring retirement activities in Greeley, CO. 

In this article, we will explore hobbies for couples in their golden years, including couple activities and enrichment ideas to bring joy and entertainment to your life. Let's begin!

Paint-and-Sip 

Painting is not just for budding artists or skilled professionals. Consider attending a paint-and-sip event with your partner to experience a delightful night of wine and artwork. 

Explore your local paint-and-sip establishment to see if any themes pique your interest. Often, you can choose the specific theme when booking on their website. 

During the event, you will sip your wine and follow along with an instructor to recreate a beautiful masterpiece. Once finished, you can take the painting home with you or leave it at the studio. 

Classes may also be broken down according to skill level. If you have never done a paint-and-sip before, start as a beginner and work your way up. 

Consider purchasing frames for your paintings and hanging them up in your apartment at The Lodge at Greeley. You and your partner can admire your artwork every day and reflect on fond memories together. 

Hiking 

You do not have to be a professional hiker to experience the beauty of the outdoors. Colorado is a premier hiking destination, with several local trails to explore. 

Before you embark on a hike, research the trail you want to attempt. Many websites explain trails in detail and rate them in difficulty. For instance, you probably should not attempt trails that require mountaineering experience for your senior hobbies. 

If you are out of shape or new to hiking, take it slow. Go to a local park or a flat trail and walk as much as you can. It is important to pace yourself, as doing too much too quickly can discourage you from trying again. 

For safe hiking, the right apparel is crucial. Hiking boots are a great investment, especially if you plan on expanding your hobby to more complex trails. Make sure you wear clothing that covers up your arms and legs if you go through areas with high grass or brush. 

Pickleball 

Though it was virtually unknown until a few years ago, pickleball is quickly becoming a favorite national pastime. The sport is similar to tennis, but the lighter rackets and balls make it more accessible for groups who may not have as much arm strength, such as seniors. 

Just like tennis, you can play pickleball in singles or doubles. Equipment ranges in price, but you can purchase a beginner's set for a reasonable price at your local big box or sporting goods store. 

Engaging in physical activities, such as sports, is a great coping mechanism for seniors. It allows you to connect with your body and fosters a healthy competitive spirit. 

If you and your partner are new to pickleball, try playing a few rounds by yourselves to learn the sport. When you feel more confident, consider joining a local league or meeting up with another senior couple to play doubles. You can even enter pickleball competitions. 

Jigsaw Puzzles 

While getting outdoors with your significant other can be entertaining, doing indoor activities together can be just as meaningful. Jigsaw puzzles have many benefits, including: 

• Improved memory and brain function
• Collaboration and teamwork 
• Better concentration 
• Increased problem-solving skills
• Reduced levels of anxiety and stress

Depending on your speed and how much time you invest into your puzzle daily, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete. However, if you find yourselves spending quite a bit of time and money on puzzles, consider a subscription service. 

You can receive a puzzle in the mail, complete the puzzle, and then send it back to exchange it for another one. It will save you money in the long run, and you can avoid the clutter of puzzle boxes filling up your home. 

Ballroom Dancing

Ballroom dancing is a fun and athletic way to experience a new hobby with your partner. See if dance studios in your area offer ballroom or couples' dance lessons. You may be put in a group with other couples, or it may be worth it to splurge on private lessons. 

While the term "ballroom dancing" might imply that you will only learn a certain style of dancing, most adult programs offer a variety of dance lessons, including: 

• Ballroom
• Salsa
• Tango 
• Swing
• Samba 
• Rumba 

Taking ballroom lessons can be intimidating at first, especially if you do not have a history of dance experience. Go easy on yourselves and remember that you are there to have fun, not to impress anyone. 

Traveling

When your children are grown and you no longer have the responsibilities of work, traveling is one of the best senior hobbies to try. If you've built up a travel bucket list, take it out and go over it with your partner. 

Make sure that your passport is up to date if you plan to leave the country. Additionally, you must research restrictions on items such as medicine that you may need to bring with you. 

Try These Hobbies for Couples

Hobbies for couples are wonderful opportunities to take advantage of retirement with your spouse or significant other. With these ideas, you can cultivate the lifestyle of your dreams, all with your partner by your side. 

Consider The Lodge at Greeley as the community that you call home. With independent living, assisted living, and memory care options, we offer a variety of floor plans for residents in every stage of senior life. Amenities include an on-site library, a beauty salon, a fitness center, and restaurant-style dining. 

Are you ready to transition to a senior living community? Reach out to us today to learn more, or visit our beautiful location in Greeley, CO, to see it for yourself. We can't wait to meet you!