The Caring Corner®

New Year’s Resolutions for Seniors

January 1, 2016

Each New Year is a time to start fresh and begin making changes for you and your body, both mentally and physically. Whether you need to lose a few pounds or focus on learning something new, there are a few things you can do to improve your overall health. Here are a few New Year’s resolutions to consider.

 

  1. Call Old Friends and Reestablish Connections with Family.  Our friends and relatives live all over the country and the world. It can make it very difficult to keep in touch. If you can’t go for a visit, reach out on social media with Facebook or Instagram to share photos and messages with people you care about. You can also Skype for free online with a friend and have a face to face conversation or use smartphone apps to call for free and speak to your loved ones.
  2. Start Eating Healthy.  Try to start eating healthier by slowing incorporating new fruits and vegetables in your diet and eating less junk foods or processed foods. Smoothies are a great way to add vegetables and fruits to your diet if you don’t enjoy the taste of some of the vegetables.
  3. Take a Break. Having a weekly schedule with plenty of activities and socializing is key, however, you do need to take a break on occasion. Don’t fill up your calendar to the point that there is no time for some rest and relaxation. Take a day off to visit a friend or do something you enjoy. This will allow you to unwind and relax.
  4. Exercise Your Body and Brain. Take time out of your day to exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Choose an activity you enjoy such as walking or biking. Strength training is also a good way to keep you strong and healthy. It is also a good idea to exercise your brain. Challenge yourself to a daily puzzle, card game or learn something new on the computer. This will help you reduce your risk of developing dementia symptoms as you age. Some community colleges even offer free classes to those over 65.
  5. Find Solutions to Prevent Falls.  Millions of elderly fall every year and once you fall your probability of falling again doubles. Some of these falls cause hospitalization and can result in serious medical problems. Staying fit is the number one thing you can do to prevent falls. It is important to work on balance and strength to help you avoid tripping or stumbling. It is also important to add railings to bathrooms and non-slip mats to prevent slipping. Try to avoid going outside during inclement weather and see your doctor regularly for check-ups.

 

 

Call Acorn for screened in home care givers to assist you loved lines in Chapel Hill, Durham, Carrboro and nearby areas.

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