Happy New Year! This time of the year is a perfect opportunity to take stock of our lives and decide what we want to change. For seniors, it is an especially great time to prioritize your health and embrace opportunities to maintain your independence. Here are seven resolutions you can make to be healthier and happier in the New Year.

1. Eat More Nutritious Foods – The meaning of eating healthy can somewhat change as one grows older. The diet of seniors should focus on nutrient-dense foods that help with aging. This means eating more lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and dairy. Aim to also drink more water as it is a vital part of digestion and nutrient absorption.
2. Stimulate Your Mind – Your brain can be like other muscles: the more they are challenged, the stronger they can be. There are many activities, such as reading, painting, or doing puzzles, you can do to stimulate your mind.
3. Be Physically Active – There are significant health benefits for adults 65+ that are regularly active, no matter the amount. Exercise that helps build muscle, improve balance, and increase endurance can be especially useful. This blog from the University of Nebraska is a great guide to those starting a new routine.
4. Socialize with Others – Research has found that social support can have a significant role in the overall health of a senior. Avoiding social isolation can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, and developing Alzheimer’s disease. Consider seeing friends and family by planning a regular coffee get-together, joining a book club, or finding a group focused around a favorite hobby.
5. Take Care of Your Mental Health – Your emotional and psychological health are paramount to your general wellbeing. Research has found depression and other mental health conditions can worsen other existing conditions. Seeing a mental health practitioner can be a crucial step to living a better life.
6. Establish a Regular Healthcare Plan – As you age, it becomes more important to regularly see your doctor so they can find and address health concerns before they are too serious. At an appointment, physicians can review your medications, perform health screenings, and answer your questions.
7. Get Help If Needed – At some point, it could be difficult for your or your loved one to live by themselves at home. There are many options to help make sure seniors are happy and healthy in 2022.

CareAparent is a Medicare-certified and Joint Commission-accredited agency providing in-home care solutions for seniors. To learn how we can help improve the quality of life through in-home care, call 651.702.HOME (4663) For seniors, it is an especially great time to prioritize your health and embrace opportunities to maintain your independence. Here are seven resolutions you can make to be healthier and happier in the New Year. 663) and request a complimentary consultation.

Resources:

Healthy Eating Tips from the National Council on Aging 
Cognitive Health Information and How to Make Improvements from the National Institute on Aging 
Exercise Guide for Seniors from the University of Nebraska 
Benefits of Social Engagement from A Place From Mom 
Signs of Mental Illness and Resources to Get Help from the National Institute on Mental Health 
Benefits of Routine Doctor Visits from the Mayo Clinic