New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy Lifestyle

The holiday season is coming to an end and another new year is here! And with that comes a yearly tradition for many—setting New Year’s resolutions. Nearly 60% of Americans will make a resolution this year. Some of the most popular New Year’s resolution including eating healthier, saving more money and exercising more.

Have you made your resolutions yet? Here are some great New Year’s resolutions for seniors looking to create a healthier lifestyle in 2019:

1. Exercise at least 10 minutes every day. Regular exercise can help seniors improve mobility, maintain a healthy weight and ward off chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Some recent studies even suggest that regular exercise can help decrease cognitive decline and reduce your risk for developing certain types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s. If you’re new to exercise, vow to get in at least 10 minutes each day. This could include activities like taking a brisk walk, tai chi, yoga, water aerobics or strength training such as lifting light weights. Increase to 20 or 30 minutes a day as it is safe for you to do so.
2. Give your brain a regular workout. The majority of seniors will encounter some form of cognitive decline as they age. Help combat cognitive decline with activities that keep your mind active. Daily crossword puzzles, card games, reading, playing an instrument or learning a new hobby are great ways for seniors to give their brains a boost.
3. Cut down on sugary and fatty foods. You are what you eat, so this new year, make a point to incorporate more fruits, vegetables and lean proteins such as chicken or fish into your diet. Doing so can have a number of heart healthy properties such as helping to reduce cholesterol and keep blood pressure in check. It can also help reduce your risk for chronic conditions and help control existing health issues such as diabetes, arthritis and more.
4. Regularly take part in social activities. Staying social is important as you age. In fact, seniors who regularly take part in social activities such as book clubs, card clubs, sharing meals with friends and volunteering are less likely to experience feelings of isolation, depression and anxiety. It can also give your immune system a boost, leaving your body better prepared to fight off infections such as a cold or flu.
5. Stay on top of doctor’s and dentist appointments. Many seniors fail to keep up with regular doctor’s appointments, meaning unresolved health issues that start small are more likely to turn into bigger problems later on. This year, vow to see your physician at least once a year for a physical to rule out any potential health issues that, if left alone, could impact your ability to stay active and healthy. And don’t forget about your teeth. Dental needs change as we age. Seeing your dentist at least twice a year can help keep your teeth healthy, improving your overall well-being.

Whatever resolutions you set this year, make sure to keep them simple and personal. This can increase the likelihood that you’ll stick with them. Remember, resolutions are meant to be good all year long. Setting smaller, short-term goals in order to reach a longer-term goal can help make achieving resolutions feel less overwhelming and more achievable.

Start 2019 Right at Episcopal SeniorLife Communities

At Episcopal SeniorLife Communities we understand that every resident has their own unique life goals. We work with our residents to ensure they have the services and amenities they need to live life to the fullest no matter what their age. Our various community options, including independent living, assisted living and specialized care for those facing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, are driven by one mission—helping our residents achieve the life they want to live.

If you or a loved one has been thinking about moving to a senior living community, contact Episcopal SeniorLife Communities today to learn more and to schedule a tour.