Start 2023 off strong with these 5 empowering New Year’s resolutions for seniors. Focusing on health and happiness can truly enhance your quality of life.
1. Get active
If you are not physically active this year, it’s time to live an active lifestyle for the following year. According to the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines, 65 years and older adults must perform at least 2.5 hours of aerobic activity (moderate to vigorous) every week. You can split the activities into 10-minute sessions or more. It will also help if you include muscle and bone strengthening activities at least twice weekly to help your posture and balance. Remember to start slowly.
2. Make healthier food choices
Healthy eating gives your body the nutrients it needs. In addition, it lets you spend less time and money on doctor visits. The National Council on Aging said that a healthy plate looks like a rainbow, with bright, colourful fruits and vegetables like red, orange, purple, and green. Whole grains like whole wheat pasta and brown rice are healthier food choices also. Don’t forget to eat lean protein like seafood, lean meats, beans, and eggs, and low-fat dairy like milk.
3. Stay mentally sharp
Our brain shrinks in volume as we age. It causes some nerve cells to lose connection. We then suffer from memory lapses, which are signs of growing older. To slow these symptoms, you must stay mentally sharp. Challenge your brain by playing games that help you build or improve your focus, memory, and problem-solving skills. Crossword puzzles, card games, word puzzles, chess, and other board games are only some that stimulate your mind. They also reduce the risk of developing dementia.
4. Do things that make you happy or calm you down
Life is full of challenges, but you should not allow yourself to be defeated. You must instead stand up and live happily. Instead of dealing with problems, occupy yourself with activities that keep you in high spirits or calm you down. So, one of New Year’s resolutions for seniors must be to spend the weekend with family, go fishing, do arts, and other. Pick up a hobby that frees your mind from worries.
5. Connect with family and friends
Social isolation and loneliness can put your health at risk. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine reported that social isolation was related to an almost 50% increased risk of dementia and a significant increase in the risk of premature death. Therefore, you need to stay connected with your family and friends. You can even make new ones! Join community clubs, reach out to old friends, play games every weekend or walk in the park with your peers.
If you think you may require the assistance of an in-home caregiver to help you commit to these New Year’s resolutions for seniors, you may contact us at Surework Home Care Solutions.
