Houston is a bustling city filled with incredible opportunities for active adults to stay involved and engaged. Whether you're interested in learning a new skill, giving back to your community through volunteering, or simply seeking out ways to stay connected with others, Houston is certainly a place to check all those boxes.

Did you know that according to a study published by the NIH, older active adults who participate in regular social activities have a reduced risk of developing cognitive impairment? Moreover, independent living seniors who stay engaged in their communities are more likely to report good health, increased happiness, and a sense of purpose in their lives.

All in all, staying engaged and following your heart to explore new fulfilling passions and hobbies comes with an array of wellness benefits that can truly make these golden years golden. Now, if you are new to the independent living community or an active adult new to Houston, below are some awesome (and local) resources worth considering – all with the intention to spark curiosity, showcase options, and of course, inspire.

Active Adult Hobbies (For All Ages)

Houston is a prime location for independent living for many reasons – and aside from the amazing weather, it's because Houston is filled with so many activities that are ideal for active adults. From art, exercise, and educational programs to even virtual activities to make learning something new more convenient, there are endless ways to keep yourself engaged and in the mindset of never stop having fun. That said, what’s out there?

• Explore Houston With Virtual Tours: For a full list of opportunities to explore Houston at home, click here.

• Get Creative: There are tons and places and classes (some again being virtual) to explore your creative side. For example, the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft allows you to enjoy some hands-on activities as well as explore different exhibits. Rather get creative with cooking? If so, you can do that too! Check out and enroll in some cooking classes here.

• Stay Active: Dancing, swimming at the City Centre Houston, Zumba, senior dance fitness to cool things like chair yoga, you best bet you can find it all here in Houston. Let’s also not forget the 366 parks filled with trails surrounded by gorgeous, earthy scenery.

Volunteering & Getting Involved In Houston

Volunteering at places like the Houston Parks & Recreation Department is one of the most rewarding ways to give back to your community. Not only are you helping to preserve and maintain the beloved parks and green spaces, but you're also gaining valuable skills and knowledge about how to care for these public areas. From planting trees to cleaning up litter, there are various ways to get involved and make a difference.

Eager to get involved? If so, you can register for a volunteer program by contacting Oneika Peters at oneika.peters@houstontx.gov.

There is also another avenue for active adults to consider: Park Adoption Programs. There are currently five different adoption programs (Adopt-An-Esplanade, Adopt-A-Park, Adopt-A-Trail, Adopt-A-Sports Field, and Adopt-A-Library Greenspace), and each one offers a wonderful opportunity for active adults to stay connected, get involved, and ultimate showcase their passion towards Houston's green spaces. If this is something you are interested in, contact Greenspace Adoption Coordinator Marilu De La Fuente at 832.395.7029 or by email: marilu.delafuente@houstontx.gov.

Pursue Passions. Stay Connected. Get Involved

The benefits of staying curious and involved as an active adult are exceptionally clear. Not only does the mindset for growth and connection open the doors for new skills and surface passions never tapped into before, but it can also significantly give you a sense of larger picture purpose as you make a difference in the world around you – whether that be directly through Houston volunteering or through indirect role modeling of how enriching independent living can be.

In summary, life is all about quality, and staying engaged with the world around you is one of the ideal ways to ensure you're living your best life possible. So, don't hesitate to get involved, try new things, and discover new passions. And above all, never forget that no matter what your goals or ambitions are…it is never too late to start.