The start of a new year leads many to make New Year's Resolutions. Have your parents made any? Even if they don't complete all of their goals, it can help them get focused and try to make things happen by coming up with a list of goals for the year. These are some of the most common New Years Resolutions for older adults.
De-Clutter the Home
A cluttered home is not only frustrating, but it can make it harder to clean. With items stacked on tables, floors, and counters, it's hard to properly sanitize the surfaces. Unless things get moved, any area close to the items isn't getting cleaned.
The other problem with clutter is that things get lost easily. If your parents haven't taken the time to put back a birth certificate that was needed for something, what happens the next time it's needed? Is it going to be easy to find or is it lost in the clutter?
Improve the Diet
A new, healthier diet should be everyone's goal. Your parents should be eating seafood at least twice a week. They should eat lots of vegetables and fruit. They also want to cut out extra sugar, saturated fat, and processed foods.
Sit down and come up with new menus that focus on fish, poultry breast, legumes, dried beans, whole grains, and every color for produce. They need to make sure they're eating green, orange, yellow, red, purple, and white vegetables every day to get the majority of the antioxidants that help them improve their health.
Finish Estate Planning
If your parents haven't drawn up a will, what happens to their estate if they pass away unexpectedly? Usually, the state they live in decides. It usually puts the spouse first, followed by children, etc. If your mom or dad wanted their close family friend or a helpful neighbor to get something, the state may not agree. A will ensures assets go to the people your parents want.
Powers of attorney are other plans your parents need to consider. These documents cover financial and medical decisions. If your parents cannot make their wishes known due to some form of incapacity, they need someone they trust to speak on their behalf and make sure doctors follow their wishes.
Many of your parents' goals are achievable with some help. One of the ways to ensure they have the help they need is by arranging elder care services. Caregivers can help them cook meals for their new dietary goals. They can join your parents on walks to make sure they get daily exercise. They can help your parents learn a new hobby.
Caregivers help in a variety of ways both at home and on the road if your parents have appointments and need rides and help walking into the office or business. Call an elder care agency to arrange services.
