Ohio man, 77, got sick of retirement within a week — so now he’s visiting every state fair: ‘This is a taste of Americana’

Chew, 77, gives top marks for free biscuits and honey in Mississippi and the variety of eatables at the California State Fair. (Not to mention the edibles he saw there: “Marijuana, cigarettes, hash, and all the things that are legal.”)

But it’s the flavor of the events he loves.

“This is a taste of Americana,” he told WFAA. “You see a lot of patriotism and … hometown pride coming to a fair.”

Chew began this road trip of a lifetime shortly after he retired.

“A week later I was bored,” he said. “It was kind of a shock at first. I thought, ‘OK, now what do I do?’”

He certainly hasn’t been bored on this multi-year, cross-country tour, which includes visits to local and regional fairs where there aren’t statewide events.

Chew honors his milestones, adding a pin to his hat for every fair he attends. And while he doesn’t hand out blue ribbons, he does record a personal ranking for each one (he gave Texas a nine out of 10).

Chew sets a great example for retirees who find it easier to spend money than spend their time in a meaningful, and joyful, way.

Research suggests that a sense of adventure and purpose can keep people’s golden years golden.

A rich social life boosts wellness

Structure is essential to mental and physical health in retirement, and all the better when that structure is built to support something fun. Chew’s cross-country adventure gives him a reason to structure his days so he gets up, gets outside, gets active and gets a good night’s sleep.

As a bonus, he’s protecting himself from cognitive decline by actively engaging all of his senses — sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch.

Retirees can do the same with any pursuit that interests them, whether it’s a hobby or craft, volunteering or taking a course at the local community college.

Chew has also found a great way to combat social isolation as he interacts with people from all over the country. A Pew Research Center study in 2019 found the average American aged 60 and older spent more than half their waking hours alone.

This is a particular concern for men. According to the Pew Research Center, the number of American men 65 and older who live alone has grown. By 2023, 19% of the 65-plus population was living the single life.

Social isolation is more than a mental health risk. The Centers for Disease Control notes that it can increase risks of heart disease and stroke, diabetes, dementia and earlier death.