Rejuvenate Your Spirit: Why Traveling After 50 is So Beneficial
As we enter our 50s and beyond, it’s understandable that our priorities may shift. But while we focus on family, career, or retirement, one thing we shouldn’t overlook is the immense value of travel. Taking epic vacations allows us to explore, discover, and experience the joys of the world—something that can profoundly benefit our brains, bodies, and spirits at any age.
In this post, we’ll dig into the research on why traveling after 50 is so worthwhile for our overall wellbeing. We’ll also provide tips and resources to inspire your next adventure!
Boosting Brain Power
Numerous studies demonstrate that travel provides cognitive benefits by stimulating our brains in new ways. When we visit unfamiliar places, our brains are forced to adapt by creating new neural pathways and connections through a process called neuroplasticity. This enhances cognitive abilities like memory, concentration, problem-solving, and creativity.
For example, a 2021 study published in PLOS ONE found that senior travelers scored higher on tests measuring cognitive function compared to those who did not travel frequently. Tasks like navigating foreign environments, conversing in other languages, and processing new information keep our brains engaged.
Other research shows travel may help lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. A 2022 study revealed that women who traveled often in middle age were less likely to develop these conditions than non-travelers. Experts believe the cognitive stimulation of travel may build up a “cognitive reserve” that protects brain health.
Reducing Stress
Getting away from the demands of everyday life through travel allows our minds and bodies to fully relax and recharge. This mental break provides relief from stress and burnout.
One reason travel is so rejuvenating is because it allows us to disconnect from work and technology. A 2022 survey found that 80% of travelers felt less work-related stress while on vacation. Being immersed in new environments shifts our focus to enjoying the present moment.
Travel also promotes physical relaxation through activities like lounging on the beach, getting spa treatments, or catching up on sleep. This combination of mental and physical rejuvenation leaves us feeling restored.
Boosting Creativity
In addition to cognitive skills, travel also enhances creative thinking. When we immerse ourselves in unfamiliar settings, we flex our creative muscles by gathering new inspiration and perspectives.
Researchers have found that living abroad increases creativity because of the new experiences and cultural encounters. This 2015 study found students studying abroad produced more creative artwork and writing than students at home.
Likewise, traveling anywhere outside our comfort zone can spark creative problem-solving and “outside the box” thinking. We gain insights that inspire arts, writing, science innovations, and more.
Promoting Happiness
Travel is also linked to higher levels of happiness and satisfaction with life. A 2021 survey found 93% of frequent U.S. travelers said vacation travel made them “happier individuals.”
While every stage of life brings happiness, research shows our sense of well-being peaks at age 69. Experts believe this is because older adults have the time, wisdom, and resources to pursue meaningful activities like travel.
Creating new memories, seeing stunning sites, and gaining new perspectives through travel are all key to promoting and maintaining happiness as we age.
Improving Physical Health
Many types of travel also provide physical and cardiovascular benefits. Touring cities on foot, hiking nature trails, snorkeling, or just walking to sights engages our bodies. One study found women who vacationed frequently were more likely to experience enhanced physical function and vitality.
Exposure to new environments may also boost immune function. This 2018 study found women who traveled abroad had better immunity against viruses and other illnesses. Experts believe exposing yourself to diverse bacteria and microbes while traveling may positively impact your immune response.
Promoting Social Bonds
Shared travel experiences also help strengthen social relationships with partners, families, or groups. Trying new activities together and navigating unknown places brings people closer.
A survey of frequent travelers found that over two-thirds said travel helped reinforce relationships. And 81% said traveling as a family improved their connections. [9]
When coupled with physical activities, travel also lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol and promotes the bonding hormone oxytocin.
Tips for Easy, Epic Travel After 50
Now that you know all the reasons travel benefits your mind, body and spirit, let’s explore some tips for smooth, epic trips:
- Use online travel booking platforms like Expedia, TripAdvisor or Kayak to easily compare options for flights, hotels, activities and more. Many offer senior discounts!
- Work with a travel agent specializing in vacations for travelers 50+. They can handle logistics and give insider tips tailored to you.
- Look into travel loyalty programs with airlines, hotels and credit card companies to earn major discounts and free trips!
- Research destinations and activities personalized to your abilities, interests and must-see sites using AARP’s Trip Finder.
- Check out tour companies like Backroads Active Travel that offer multi-adventure vacations tailored to 50+ travelers.
- Purchase travel insurance in case any emergency comes up requiring medical care or a last minute change of plans.
- Always ask about senior discounts at attractions, museums, restaurants, and transportation.
Inspiring Destinations and Experiences
The world is full of awe-inspiring destinations, cultures and activities just waiting to be explored after 50. Here are some ideas to spark your wanderlust:
- Reconnect with Nature – Try an Alaskan cruise to witness glaciers and wildlife, go on an African safari, or escape to a quaint New England inn surrounded by fall foliage. Being immersed in nature restores mind and body.
- Immerse in Culture – Get a taste of history and art in European cities like London, Paris or Rome. Or opt for more exotic locales like Japan, India or Morocco to open your mind to new traditions.
- Indulge Your Tastes – Journey to the wine regions of Italy, Napa Valley or France. Or take a Caribbean culinary tour to savor island flavors. Satisfying your palette engages the senses.
- Embrace Adventure – Go heli-hiking in the Canadian Rockies, trek Machu Picchu, or take a hot air balloon safari in Kenya for an adrenaline rush. Pushing your limits creates treasured memories.
- Find Renewal – Restore yourself at a secluded beach villa in Bali, an ashram nestled in India, or a serene hot springs resort in Iceland. This allows both deep relaxation and self-discovery.
- Make friends – Opt for a group tour or cruise catered to solo travelers over 50 to ensure camaraderie and new connections. Sharing moments together bonds you for life.
The possibilities for travel are endless at any age. The important thing is choosing destinations and experiences that speak to your spirit. Listening to your heart is the best guide for transformational journeys.
Pack Your Bags and Satisfy Your Wanderlust
Hopefully this post has illuminated why travel after 50 is so beneficial, as well as sparked ideas for your next great adventure. When planned smartly, you can make trips easy, affordable and fun by utilizing resources and discounts. More importantly, exploring the world expands your mind, nourishes your spirit, and brings you joy.
Stop putting off travel just because you’ve reached a certain age. The truth is, our minds, bodies and spirits thrive when we open ourselves to new people, places and possibilities. Where will your next epic trip take you? The world is waiting – pack your bags and wander!
Sources:
[1] https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0245730
[2] https://www.bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-022-02951-5
[3] https://www.mmgyglobal.com/files/2018-Portrait-of-American-Travelers_Trade-Report.pdf
[4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0742051X1500006X
[6] https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2011/05/people-happiest
[7] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17993252/
[9] https://news.engin.umich.edu/2019/01/vacations-found-to-be-good-for-your-well-being/
[10] https://workplacepsychology.net/2011/12/04/bonding-with-others-through-shared-travel-experiences/
