A new year is an opportunity for a fresh start. It’s a time when many commit to making changes in their lives in the form of resolutions or set goals for what could be achieved in the year ahead. These resolutions and goals can be as specific or as ambitious as desired, while making positive changes for active senior living.
“The smallest changes in a person’s lifestyle can bring about big results-especially for seniors,” said Carol Ditman, Senior Executive Director of Programming at Country Meadows Retirement Communities and Ecumenical Retirement Community. “Regardless of the level of care needed, active senior living is possible. Independent living, assisted living or personal care residents can identify something they’d like to improve on or something new they’d like to try.”
When starting out on the resolution journey, results do not happen overnight. According to behavioral psychologists, it takes the average person 66 days to form a habit. But doing little things each day adds up to goals achieved.
Not sure where to start? Consider picking a goal focused on active senior living such as health and wellness, safety, social or spiritual aspects of well-being.
Health and Wellness
- Stay active — plan a daily walk or join a fitness class specifically for seniors
- Eat healthier — incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet
- Improve sleep — establish a consistent bedtime routine
Safety
- Declutter — consider taking ten minutes each day to tidy a room
- Make home improvements — install railings or ramps to increase accessibility and prevent falls
- Be cyber safe — monitor online activity and secure passwords to prevent against fraud
Social
- Regularly connect with friends or family — plan a specific time or day for a phone call
- Join a group — participate in activities that are happening in the community
- Reengage with a hobby — something that you can do with others, such as a knitting or book club
Spiritual
- Establish a mindfulness routine — set aside a few minutes a day for meditation or prayer
- Strengthen faith — participate in a spiritual practice that resonates with you
“Remember not to get discouraged. If you miss a day, it doesn’t mean the routine has to be broken,” added Carol. “Resolutions may need to be adjusted due to a variety of factors, such as health changes or busy schedules. What is important is that the resolutions are meaningful and impactful; only then can it stick.”
Tips for Keeping Resolutions:
- Create a specific plan for how and when you are going to act on your resolution
- Establish an accountability system, maybe that is a family member or friend, or a log that you document your progress
- Check in with yourself frequently to monitor your progress
- Congratulate yourself with a reward after a goal is achieved
Country Meadows Retirement Communities are active senior living communities. Our residents have access to fitness, cultural and intellectual activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. Learn more about our Dynamic Living programming and consider joining us for an activity.
