FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — While retirement is often seen as a time to relax after years of work, experts say the transition can come with unexpected mental health challenges.<\/p>\n
According to the National Institute of Health, retirees are more likely to experience depression than those who are still working.<\/p>\n
Data from the National Institute also estimates the prevalence of depression among retirees at 28%, substantially higher than that of the overall older adult population.<\/p>\n
Health experts say several factors contribute to this increase.<\/p>\n
Retirement often brings a loss of structure, daily routines and social connections built through years in the workforce.<\/p>\n
“As a person retires, the sense of purpose, the sense of having those work colleagues and a social network, light exercise and a structured day is all gone. And that leads to many times feeling of loneliness and depression,” said Dr. Amit Saini, a geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente Fresno.<\/p>\n
Dr. Saini encourages retirees to stay engaged and find new ways to build connection and purpose.<\/p>\n
“Pick up a new hobby, a new language. It could be mentoring a younger colleague or even teaching, finding connection or purpose at religious center community center,” he said.<\/p>\n
In Fresno County, there are local resources aimed at helping seniors stay active and socially connected.<\/p>\n
The Clovis Senior Activity Center offers a variety of programs designed to build community.<\/p>\n
The Clovis Senior Activity Center offers over 70 programs for seniors to find a community.<\/p>\n
According to Senior Services Supervisor Ashlee Winslow, the center draws hundreds of participants each day.<\/p>\n
“We have about 850 on average daily attendance,” said Winslow. “We also offer a number of exercise classes, art classes. We have a ceramics class, we have multiple game opportunities.”<\/p>\n
For some seniors, these programs have made a meaningful difference in their daily lives.<\/p>\n
Toni Tutor, who regularly attends the Clovis Senior Activity Center, said it has helped her stay engaged and maintain her well-being.<\/p>\n
“I come here every day, so I don’t sit on my couch at home and get more depressed than you know. So, yeah, it’s a wonderful place to come and spend the day. I’ve made wonderful friends in here. It’s been a good thing in my life,” Tutor said.<\/p>\n
Along with maintaining social connections, Dr. Saini advises retirees to prioritize their physical health by staying active and keeping up with regular medical visits.<\/p>\n
Experts say taking these steps can help ease the transition into retirement and reduce the risk of depression.<\/p>\n
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