It’s a new year and a chance for a new start. For many people, that means setting some New Year’s resolutions to achieve throughout the year. Seniors are no exception, as each year is more precious than the last. If you’re looking to make 2023 one of your healthiest and happiest years yet, there’s no better time to start than now. Consider these achievable New Year’s resolution ideas for seniors that can help boost your health and quality of life.
We make it a priority to give our residents a fulfilling lifestyle at Buckner Retirement Services. We offer a variety of communities that cater to all abilities, needs, and interests. Reach out to us today at 214.227.7182 to learn more about what we offer.
Why Set New Year’s Resolutions?
It’s common for people of all ages to set New Year’s resolutions, but there is evidence that it can significantly benefit seniors. Resolutions allow people to set goals for themselves and help to provide a sense of purpose throughout the year. So that the resolution is not forgotten or cast aside, it’s a good idea to make it a priority. One step that works for almost everyone is to write down the resolution and the thoughts and purpose behind it. Doing this helps solidify the goal and make it easier to visualize, which can make a big difference in the motivation to achieve it. This is a great way to enter a new year with an upbeat attitude.
5 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Seniors
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
Most people love eating with their family members and loved ones, and the holidays tend to be a never-ending buffet of sweets and other calorie-dense foods. After this, it’s understandable that people may want to eat healthier and will resolve to eat better after New Year’s. For seniors, their bodies require healthy food but fewer calories in comparison to younger people. Some examples of good healthy foods include:
- Fresh fruits
- Steamed or roasted vegetables
- Whole grains
- Fish
- Nuts
- Yogurt
It’s best to try to avoid fatty meats by choosing lean-meat options such as chicken or turkey. Eating heart-healthy fish a couple of times a week is also a good idea.
2. Start a New Hobby
Senior adults will often have a lot of free time and need more interaction to occupy themselves without work or other responsibilities. This is a great opportunity to find new passions and hobbies that can be fulfilling and life-affirming. While extreme sports may be out of the question, depending on their health level and physical ability, many low-impact and low-cost hobbies can be started either at home or in a community. Painting, walking groups, or choirs are all easy activities that are suitable for people of all ages. The only limitation is the willingness to start.
3. Exercise More
One of the best things seniors can do to stay healthy is to remain physically active through regular exercise. This can include taking regular walks, doing gentle exercises such as yoga or tai chi, or even joining a local gym or fitness class. Staying active can help improve balance and coordination, reduce stress, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and even lead to weight loss. Exercise also improves cardiovascular health, which can be very beneficial as heart diseases are some of the most common chronic conditions among seniors.
4. Take on New Intellectual Challenges
Challenging the brain with regular mental stimulation is just as important as physical activities, as it helps combat cognitive decline and memory loss. Thanks to the internet, there are many ways to learn new things and stimulate the brain. Online classes and courses offer countless opportunities to engage with other learners, and in-person communities such as book clubs allow seniors to find other like-minded people. Lifelong learning helps build the brain’s resilience and ability to cope with stress, which will help keep mental abilities sharp throughout retirement.
5. Make More Friends
Social activities reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, boost seniors’ self-esteem and confidence, and give them a sense of purpose. Socializing with others can also help seniors stay engaged in the community and maintain relationships with friends and peers. Being around other people provides an opportunity for seniors to hear fresh perspectives on topics related to their interests or concerns that they may not have heard before. Socializing with peers can also be fun. It’s a great way for seniors to keep up with current trends and technologies and discover new hobbies or activities they may enjoy.
Enjoy an Active Lifestyle at Buckner Retirement Services
At Buckner Retirement Services, we understand that our residents require ample opportunities to learn, experience, and thrive, and we design our lifestyle programs to give them as many chances to do so as possible. We offer regular social events and outings and have a vibrant community life program. There’s something for everyone at Buckner Retirement Services, regardless of ability level. Contact us at 214.227.7182 for more New Year’s resolution ideas for seniors and how we can help you or your loved one achieve them.