As the New Year begins, people all around the world are making resolutions to quit drinking soda and to finally buckle down and sign up for a gym membership. As a senior, you may be stumped trying to think of a resolution this year that is attainable and will have a positive impact on your health and wellbeing.
But good news: GrandPad has you covered! We’ve collected the best New Year’s resolutions for seniors in one place. These options are realistic and will help you stay fit, balanced, socially engaged, and whip smart. Read on, and if you like more than one resolution, consider doubling up!
Keep Veggies in Your Diet
When your appetite slows down in older age, the food groups most likely to vanish from your daily intake are those that are considered “side items,” namely fruits and vegetables. Though you don’t need as many calories per day, you should maintain a balanced diet, according to the updated MyPyramid for Older Adults. Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, focusing on options with deep colors like dark green, yellow, and orange.
Choose a Healthy Multivitamin
Taking a multivitamin first thing in the morning only requires a minute of your time. The health benefits, however, can impact you for years to come. As your food intake decreases it can be more challenging than ever to fill your body with needed nutrients and vitamins. Talk to your healthcare provider and determine together what your best option is for a healthy multivitamin. Some seniors may want to take additional supplements as well for optimal health.
Attend a Classic Show
Most communities will have at least one performance of The Nutcracker, and several various holiday concerts and shows going up in theatres and churches in your area. Scout out which show your family would most enjoy and make a tradition out of it. Holiday activities change over time as families grow and children transition into adult and have kids of their own, but a family outing to see The Nutcracker can provide stability and routine in an otherwise ever-changing holiday season.
Get Moving
Especially when you have arthritis, heart disease, or another disease, physical activity helps keep your body in its best shape, combatting the health problems associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Simply choose an activity that’s safe for you to perform when all of your conditions are taken into account, and plan to do it two or three times per week. Some terrific options for seniors include water aerobics, tai chi, and walking.
Break a Mental Sweat
In order to combat any potential onset of dementia, flex your brain by taking an hour every couple of days to sharpen your mind. You can read a book, or play games like Sudoku or Crossword to get those brain juices flowing. If you no longer find a certain game or activity exciting or challenging, switch things up. You could even join a book club or trivia team to get in your mental workout regularly.
Focus on the Right Foods
Sticking to a New Year’s resolution is easier when you phase it into your routine. For example, one month you can make the switch to fiber-rich whole grain bread, then once you’ve adjusted switch to less fatty meats like turkey and chicken. Gradually, you’ll be eating healthier equivalents of your staple foods and your heart will thank you! Other healthy foods to incorporate are heart-healthy salmon and tuna, as well as low-fat milk that contains calcium without the extra fat.
Stay in Touch
Senior loneliness can speed up the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia, and it can aggravate existing conditions. Schedule a weekly phone call or video chat with each of your loved ones so you stay connected, even if you live far apart. On the GrandPad you can call anyone in your circle of family and friends with just a tap of the screen.
New Year’s resolutions like these can help you live life to the fullest with easy and manageable steps. None of them are overwhelming, and what you accomplish this upcoming year will make your future even brighter.