New Year's Resolutions for Older Adults
Millions of Americans make resolutions each new year with the hopes of improving their health and happiness. However, seniors set resolutions much less frequently than younger individuals, likely because they feel their physical limitations or health conditions will hold them back.
5 Realistic Goals for Seniors to Set in 2025
Remember that it’s never too late to create goals for yourself, but be sure they’re realistic and attainable. A few small shifts in your habits can have a big impact on your overall well-being.
As we welcome the new year, consider making the following resolutions that support your physical, mental, and emotional health.
1. Have a Positive Mindset
Research shows that cultivating a positive attitude can have a multitude of benefits, including lowering your risk of disease and memory loss. This year, commit to glass-half-full thinking by focusing on the aspects of your life that you have control over. Try writing in a gratitude journal, practicing a mindfulness exercise, and surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family members.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by negative thoughts and could use professional guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor.
2. Focus on Physical Health
Maintaining your strength and balance is crucial for healthy aging, but it’s understandable if exercise feels overwhelming. Instead of pushing yourself to complete a strict workout routine, resolve to simply move more whenever possible. This could include taking a short walk around your neighborhood or attending an aquatic fitness class at the Chilson Senior Center.
3. Prioritize Family Time
If you have grandchildren (or younger relatives) who live nearby, make it a goal to visit with them more often this year. As it turns out, seniors who have regular interaction with their grandkids have improved health outcomes, sharper cognition, and lower rates of depression.
4. Explore New Interests
Some people believe the misconception that older adults are incapable of adapting to technology or learning new skills, but that’s simply untrue. You can experience significant cognitive benefits by engaging in a new and enriching activity, like taking an adult painting class at the Loveland Museum.
Related Reading: Discover more Myths about Aging in our past blog post.
5. Enhance Your Safety
Making your home a safe environment should be a top priority if you’re a senior aging in place. Chances are, there are some basic modifications you can make to enhance security around the home, like adding grab bars, improving lighting, and removing clutter from walkways.
If you could use professional assistance to remain safe and independent at home, a home care agency like Visiting Angels Loveland can be of help.
Visiting Angels Can Help Seniors Achieve Their Resolutions
You may need added support to help achieve your goals in the coming year. Whether you want to build physical strength, eat healthier, or try a new hobby, the team at Visiting Angels Loveland can provide personalized care that’s tailored to your specific circumstances.
To learn more about our non-medical home care service options or to schedule a free consultation, reach out today via our online form or by calling 970-292-5668.