A new year opens the door to possibilities. Choosing a New Year’s resolution sparks your motivation and provides a sense of purpose for the year ahead.
As we age, health becomes increasingly important in determining how we spend our senior years. Here are some New Year’s resolutions for older adults:
1. Daily Exercise
Getting more exercise is one of the hardest resolutions to stick to. The secret is setting a small goal that’s realistic and achievable: 20 minutes per day. Whether you’re walking, stretching or swimming, a small amount of exercise is more beneficial than none at all. The more often you exercise, the easier it becomes!
2. Daily Puzzles & Brain Teasers
Solving daily puzzles keeps your mind sharp. You can find word games, sudoku or jigsaw puzzles in newspapers, magazines or online. Incorporating puzzles and brainteasers into your daily routine can reduce stress while boosting memory retention and problem-solving skills.
3. Better Nutrition
As we age, our bodies develop different dietary needs. We may need to eat less of certain foods or reduce our calorie intake. Making sure you’re consuming the proper nutrients is essential. Eat whole foods like fruits and vegetables and minimize processed foods. Prioritizing healthful eating in the new year is a great way to put your body’s needs first.
4. Organize Your Space
A messy space can make thinking and focusing more challenging. Organizing your home not only cleans your space, it declutters your mind. It’s especially helpful to remove clutter from high-traffic areas in your home to prevent slips and falls.
5. Get in Touch with Your Creative Side
Have you always had a passion for dancing, painting, or playing music? Whether you’ve wanted to start a creative project or haven’t considered it before, it’s never too late to take up a new hobby! Check with your local senior center, community groups, and colleges for fun and affordable arts programs.
6. Preserve Your Family History
Recording stories or making a time capsule preserves your family’s history for the next generation. You can make digital copies of favorite photos and documents then distribute them to family members for safekeeping. Conserving your history plays a vital role in keeping cherished memories alive and keeping each generation connected to their roots. These shared narratives are crucial for self-understanding and instilling a sense of belonging for future family members.
7. Volunteer In Your Community
When you volunteer, you’re giving back to your local community. While benefiting others, you’re contributing to your own well-being, too. If you’re passionate about cooking, consider helping your local soup kitchen prepare meals. If you love animals, explore opportunities to help your local animal shelter. There’s a range of volunteer options, so finding an activity that fits your interests is easy!
