I may say this every year around this time, but I’m going to say it again: where does the time go?
As we embark on New Year 2023, it occurred to me that many of the elders we care for rarely make new year’s resolutions. Perhaps, it’s because they’ve seen so many new years in their lifetime that making a resolution doesn’t seem to matter.
However, I found some fun New Year’s resolutions for seniors that are intended to make life in 2023 more fun, healthy, and interesting.
Try a New Healthy Food Weekly
Grocery stores are continually adding new types of produce and products to their shelves that provide endless possibilities to nail this resolution!
Learn Something New Everyday
Learning can help reduce cognitive decline associated with aging, according to Psychology Today. It can also help older adults deal with depression and poor self-image. Consider learning more about a subject or hobby that interests you or try something totally new!
Pick a Hobby
Finding and participating in a hobby you enjoy can reduce the risk of developing dementia and other mental health conditions, according to the National Institutes on Aging. The most popular hobbies for people ages 65 and older are walking, jogging, outdoor maintenance, and playing sports.
Find a New Favorite Dessert
Humans tend to be creatures of habit, and all of us tend to have our go-to desserts. So why not try something different for a sweet change? Pre-made options exist in most grocery stores, or find a new recipe for a treat you’ve never tried before and make it to share with family and friends.
Become a Writer
Journaling has become quite a popular trend over the years, and with all of the life experiences seniors have endured, it would be valuable to write them down for family and future generations. Writing is not limited to journaling, though. Seniors can write books, poems, plays, or jokes. Writing can be fun, and it can help seniors avoid depression.
Play More
As George Bernard Shaw has said, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
Playing boosts energy, vitality, and your body’s immune response. Seniors should consider joining an active group that regularly plays Bunco or Bridge; or invite friends to form their own group for a weekly or bi-weekly game night to play board or card games you all enjoy.
Join a Dance or Exercise Class
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that older adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. Muscle strengthening is also recommended two or more days per week. Taking a regular dance or exercise class will help achieve these goals in a safe, fun environment.
Read More Books
Reading enhances memory, sharpens decision-making skills, reduces stress, and helps seniors sleep better. Discover popular releases on the New York Times Bestseller List, Oprah’s Book Club, or The History Book Club, or find a local book club to join.
Set Aside One Hour Each Day to Achieve a Dream
This may sound like a steep order but think about it. If there is a project or plan you have contemplated, find one hour each day to work on it. By the end of 2023, there will be an accumulated 365 hours of time devoted to achieving that dream.
Count Your Blessings with an Attitude of Gratitude
Gratitude improves physical and psychological health, enhances empathy, reduces aggression, boosts self-esteem, bolsters mental strength, and improves sleep. Write down one think that you are grateful for every day and you’ll be surprised at how many blessings surround you. Done consistently, this should improve your attitude and outlook on life.
Spend More Time in Nature
Getting back to nature helps you get fresh air and exercise needed to be healthy, and it connects you to the world around you.
Enjoy the Little Things in Life
Sometimes the smallest things can bring about the greatest pleasures. Embrace the smell of coffee in the morning, a hug from a loved one, or the sounds of music you enjoy.
Be Charismatic, Not Shy
Be yourself and be confident. Confident people will admit that they acted confidently before they felt confident. Pay attention to your posture, stand up straight, lift your chin, look people in the eyes, and walk with confidence, even if you don’t feel confident. Remember, the only thing worse than failure is regret!
Boost Your Brain
One of the healthiest decisions you can make for your brain is to continually learn new things to forge new pathways in your brain. Play brain games, listen to the news, take a class, and talk to people who interest you. Brain-boosting foods like blueberries, broccoli, pumpkin seed, nuts, and dark chocolate are also beneficial.
Become a Volunteer
Volunteer to read to children during story time at your local school or library, or give your time to your church, a hospital, or a museum. Older adults who volunteer in their communities report lower mortality rates, lower rates of depression, fewer physical limitations, and a greater sense of well-being.
These are all great New Year resolutions for seniors or anyone looking for a fresh perspective in 2023.
If Home Helpers® can provide assistance and support for you or a senior you love in the Clearwater area, I gladly offer a FREE Consultation to assess specific needs and match the perfect caregiver to provide in-home care services and companionship.
We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award 2016-2022 and the Best of Home Care® Employer of Choice Award 2022. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson, and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠ (727)942-2539
Source:
Medford Leas
