Rediscovering Purpose in Retirement: How Life Plan Communities Help You Thrive
For many, retirement isn’t about slowing down—it’s about rediscovering what makes life meaningful. After years of balancing careers, raising families, and managing responsibilities, this stage of life opens the door to ask: What brings me purpose now?
Recent research has shown that the answer often lies in staying socially connected, pursuing growth, and engaging in experiences that matter. Two studies—the MassMutual Retirement Happiness Study (https://www.massmutual.com/about-us/news-and-press-releases/press-releases/2024/05/massmutual-study-retirees-with-strong-social-connections-are-happier) and the AgeWell Study by Mather Institute (https://www.matherinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MI_AgeWellStudyYear5_FNL2.pdf)—offer powerful insights into what helps retirees thrive.
Finding Happiness Through Engagement
The MassMutual Retirement Happiness Study (https://www.massmutual.com/about-us/news-and-press-releases/press-releases/2024/05/massmutual-study-retirees-with-strong-social-connections-are-happier) revealed a key difference between retirees who describe themselves as “very happy” and those who don’t: the happiest retirees fill their days with a variety of social and interactive activities. Whether it’s attending a book club, volunteering, or spending time with friends, these moments of connection add meaning and enjoyment to daily life.
In short, happiness in retirement is less about what you’ve saved and more about how you spend your time. Regular social engagement not only boosts your outlook but also supports long-term wellbeing.
Purpose and Growth in Life Plan Communities
The AgeWell Study (https://www.matherinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MI_AgeWellStudyYear5_FNL2.pdf)—a five-year national study from the Mather Institute—found that residents of Life Plan Communities report higher levels of purpose, life satisfaction, and personal growth compared to those who choose other types of senior living.
Why does this happen? Life Plan Communities are designed to make social connections and personal exploration part of everyday living. Residents have easy access to classes, cultural events, volunteer opportunities, and wellness programs—all within steps of their front door. This environment reduces barriers to participation, making it easier to keep exploring new interests.
The study highlights something important: purpose doesn’t have to end with retirement—it can continue to grow when people have opportunities to engage, create, and connect with others in meaningful ways.
Building Connections That Matter
Retirement can sometimes feel isolating, especially if friends or family live far away. Life Plan Communities offer a built-in social network, making it easier to meet new people who share your interests. From conversation over dinner to organized activities, the sense of belonging plays a vital role in helping people feel energized and purposeful.
The MassMutual study (https://www.massmutual.com/about-us/news-and-press-releases/press-releases/2024/05/massmutual-study-retirees-with-strong-social-connections-are-happier) reinforces this idea: retirees who invest in relationships and activities tend to feel happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. Together, both studies show that purpose in retirement isn’t just a nice-to-have—it plays an important role in long-term wellbeing.
Discover Purpose at The Glen at Scripps Ranch
If you’re wondering how to make the most of retirement, consider how your environment supports connection and growth. At The Glen at Scripps Ranch, residents discover purpose every day through friendships, experiences, and opportunities designed to enrich life.
The Glen is more than a place to live—it’s a community designed to support meaningful connections and opportunities to thrive. Schedule a tour today to explore how our campus may help you build connections and discover new purpose in retirement.