Healthy resolutions aren’t just for January 1. Seniors can prioritize wellness all year long by paying attention to good nutrition, emotional and social wellbeing, home safety, and other measures that can improve their quality of life.
Goals are important for older people because having hopes and expectations for the future reinforces a sense of optimism. Studies have shown a strong association between higher levels of optimism and greater longevity, along with a reduced risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and cognitive impairment.
Top Five Resolutions for Seniors to Make
Making a doable list of resolutions can help a senior adult feel more in control and provide motivation for healthy living. To avoid burnout (the reason most New Year Resolutions fail within 30 days), focus on small action items that can be done consistently. Here are key areas for making healthy, sustainable resolutions and a simple suggestion for each that is easy to implement, keep and build on!
- Nutrition and hydration. Poor nutrition is common in adults over age 65 and can cause serious medical problems. Eating healthy meals that include lean protein, whole grains, and fruits or vegetables should be a top priority. Fiber, calcium, vitamin D and plenty of water are also essential for good health.
TIP: Fill a container with 64 ounces of water each morning with a goal to finish it but the end of the day. - Exercise and movement. Exercise can improve cardiovascular health, balance, muscles and joints, range of motion and flexibility. It’s also a known mood booster. Consider following a walking regimen, swimming or joining group exercise classes tailored to older adults.
TIP: Carve out 15 minutes of time for exercise and put it on a calendar! Make it a priority time at least three times a week. - Mental wellbeing. Attention to mind health is now considered an important part of geriatrics and age-friendly care. Challenging the mind and putting the brain to work learning a new skill or activity, such as something creative or artistic, promotes mental acuity.
TIP: Sign up for a class! Try something outside of your comfort zone or rekindle an old hobby. Learning something new is always beneficial! - Socialization. Isolation can lead to poor health outcomes. Seniors should look for common interests with others such as activities that provide a sense of purpose (i.e., volunteerism, faith-based activities, and special causes.) Scheduling time each day to stay in touch with family and friends is an important part of maintaining connections with others.
TIP: Establish a consistent time to be with others. Don’t wait for someone to call you. - Safety at Home. Clearing living space of clutter and committing to using fall detection devices can provide significant benefits and peace of mind. Falls frequently happen at home, so it’s wise to check room-by-room for common hazards.
TIP: Pick one small area to declutter each week. It may be a drawer or one cabinet. This allows time to reminisce about items and to properly rehome items that don’t belong.
Kadan Homecare’s compassionate caregivers offer the support and encouragement that seniors need to stay active and healthy, whether they’re aging in place at home or living in an elder care setting. We would be pleased to provide a complimentary in-home consultation on options for companion care or personal home care in Atlanta. Please call 770-396-8997 or email info@kadan.org.
