It is January and with that comes a new year with new possibilities. Most people have “New Year’s resolutions” that involve exercising and healthy eating. We have some resolution ideas for senior adults that include eating better, exercising more and improving your overall health. Create goals that can help give you purpose in your life. Seniors who have purpose are more likely to have less depression and better health.
We have some suggestions of resolutions for seniors this year, including:
- TAKE AN ON-LINE COURSE – If you have access to the Internet, we highly recommend that you look into taking an on-line class to learn something new. You are never too old to not learn something new. This is especially a great time to take a course if there is something you regret not pursuing earlier on in life.
- TRY SOMETHING NEW – Use this season of the new year to be inspired to try something new such a new tv series, reading a book on a subject you are unfamiliar with or beginning a new hobby. Being adventurous most certainly does not mean that you have to be doing something risky or that is dangerous. By trying something new, you can be adventurous.
- SEND MORE MAIL – Use your time wisely and set time aside in your schedule to write to your family and friends. Use this time to write to them on how much you love them.
- SCHEDULE YOUR PHYSICAL EXAMINATION – We encourage you to stay ahead of schedule in scheduling your health check up appointment. Now more than ever before, make sure that you get your annual assessment and physical examination cared for.
- UPDATE YOUR LEGAL DOCUMENTS – It is recommended to be proactive when it comes to legal documents. Learn more about wills and the power of attorney. You can speak with a lawyer about these types of documents. If you have created legal documents before, use this resolution to make sure that all information is accurate and up-to-date. This is a great time to meet with a lawyer and make sure that all of your legal documents are current, reflective of your personal wishes and of course legal.
- GET FAMILIAR WITH TECHNOLOGY – Staying in touch with your friends and family has many wonderful benefits. One great tool in staying in touch with those you love is that of social media. In times of isolation, it can often lead to depression and even memory loss. Ask your family to help you learn more about connecting with social media and technology while you cannot be together in person. There are even great communities on the internet for support groups for people with various medical conditions and those going through transition or loss.
- BE MORE ACTIVE – Get in touch with your medical provider to see what is the best moderate physical activity for you. Even if you are increasing your physical activity by a few minutes a day, it is important to get the blood flowing and to be mobile.
- GET VACCINATED – We recommend that you speak with your pharmacist or doctor once a year to make sure that you are up-to-date on your vaccinations including COVID-19, flu, pneumonia, shingles and other vaccinations that they may recommend.
- GET FAMILIAR ABOUT FALL RISK – Did you know the leading cause for injury for Americans over the age of 65 is falling? Whether you are active or not, you can be a risk for a fall due to medications, underlying medical conditions or safety hazards in your home. Check our blog for previous articles where we discuss how to reduce your risk of falling.
We encourage you to share your resolutions with your family in order to have them understand your plans and to help you with resolutions that are practical in what fits best in your lifestyle. With any resolutions that involve exercising and diet changes, please consult with your medical professional.