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If you want to feel like age is just a number, then these resolutions are for you. This list highlights aspects that can bring more positivity and balance into your life. I’ll also share tips on how you can stick to these resolutions instead of letting them fade after a few days.
New Year’s Resolutions List for Seniors:
Here are some activities that should be your new goals to help you feel active and healthy all year long.
1. Dont Be Lazy:
Staying fit can be the hardest goal to act upon, and at times, you may feel less motivated to pursue anything. This example of a Vietnamese woman will keep the spot for your motivation filled. This 96-year-old Vietnamese woman wakes up at 5 a.m., and she and her grandson head to the gym or local park for her workouts. She takes nothing as a no. You can do that too if you start thinking about the benefits of staying fit.
As it’s the time of winter, engage in some physical activity that will help streamline your body’s mobility function. It also lifts your mood and helps you feel energized. You can even make it a social activity by inviting a friend or family member to join you—it’s more fun when people you love are involved. Ask them to do yoga or any other light physical activity with you.
2. Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy:
WHO’s resolution this year reminds you to include fruits and vegetables in your diet. I understand that sticking to healthy eating habits can be tough. It’s easy to stay on track for a few days, but keeping it up consistently is where it gets tricky.
Dr. Katy Tapper says the key to staying motivated with healthy eating is building simple routines that fit into your day. Be clear about what you’ll do and when—like having a glass of water with every meal or prepping fruits and veggies for snacks ahead of time. By making these small changes part of your daily habits, it becomes easier to stick to healthy choices, even when you’re not feeling super motivated.
Try experimenting with new recipes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. And don’t forget to give yourself a treat by having a piece of chocolate or your favorite dessert which can bring joy to your day.
3. Dont Forget Your Mental Health:
Twenty percent of people will experience mental illness in their lifetime, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. I would say, let’s set our intention to be part of the 80 percent population.
You can start by incorporating simple wellness habits into your daily life. Here are some examples.
- Waking up early to sit in sunlight and breathe fresh air
- Prepping your meals (if you need help, you can always ask for it)
- Taking a walk after meals
- Practicing mindfulness and meditation (if you don’t know how to do it, there are apps like Headspace which can guide you through)
4. Connect with Loved Ones:
When was the last time you hosted a fun gathering with friends and family? If your answer is long time then focus on reigning connection with all your close friends and family. You can reach out to family and friends regularly through phone calls, video chats, or visits. Organize small-themed dinners or game nights with friends and family.
5. Consider Socializing Too:
If you are not much of a people person. This year consider becoming one. Getting out and meeting new people can be refreshing. You could join a local club, attend a community event, or volunteer for a cause you care about. Socializing not only helps you build new friendships but also adds variety to your days. Many seniors who try this say it makes them feel more engaged and less lonely, and that’s a win for mental health.
6. Learn Something New:
Why not pick up a new hobby or restart an old one? Anything that can help you stay positive will work. It could be something creative like painting, keeping a journal; calming like knitting or gardening, or even a challenge like learning a new language.
7. Live a Little: Plan Local Adventures
Explore nearby parks, museums, or historical landmarks. It’s a great way to stay active and discover hidden gems.
8. Goodbye to all Bad Habits:
The New Year is a great time to let go of habits that don’t serve you anymore. Maybe it’s cutting back on unhealthy snacks or getting into a regular sleep routine. Even small changes, like taking a short walk every day or drinking more water, can make a big difference.
9. Find Your Source of Happiness/Laughter:
Just like connecting with friends and family is important, finding your source of happiness is equally essential. Take some time this year to reflect on what has brought you the most joy in the past. It could be a favorite TV show, a movie, the company of certain people, or even a comedy show. Stand-up comedy can be a great way to add some laughter to your life.
10. Reflect on Old Resolutions:
Take some time to look back at the resolutions you’ve made in the past. Ask yourself if they still matter or fit your life now. It’s okay to let go of goals that no longer feel useful. For example, giving up fried food might have been a good idea in your 50s, but if you’re in your 80s and miss it, maybe it’s time to enjoy it again in moderation. Resolutions should work for you, not against you.
11. Spend Time With Your Grandkids:
Kids are so fun to talk to. They always have something interesting to share that will either leave you thinking or laughing. However, getting them to sit with you can sometimes be tricky. You can connect with them by reading the stories they like or giving them their favorite chocolate or a small gift. Soon, you’ll become their favorite!
How to Keep New Year Resolutions?
A lot of people focus on health and wellness when setting New Year’s resolutions, but 43 percent don’t make any at all. It’s often because they feel resolutions don’t work if you don’t stick to them.
Daryn Link, a coordinator at Lifetime Fitness, emphasizes the importance of planning and setting.
How ConsidraCare Can Help You Achieve Your Goals?
We know how important a little support can be in maintaining life balance and staying healthy. Our caregiving services are designed to make life easier for you and your family. With compassionate and reliable care, we take some of the weight off your shoulders, giving you the time and space to focus on what matters most. Reach out to us for a free assessment today!
Wrapping Up:
These resolutions are more like intentions to guide you toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. They’re not about striving for perfection but rather about taking small, meaningful steps that feel right for you. The goal isn’t to do everything at once but to focus on what matters most to you and take it from there. Over time, these practices can become your healthy habit.
FAQ’s
1. How do I write my New Year’s resolution?
Writing a New Year’s resolution is easy when you follow these steps:
- Reflect: Think about what worked last year and what you’d like to improve.
- Focus: Pick specific areas like health, relationships, or personal growth.
- Be Clear: Set realistic, measurable goals (e.g., “Walk 30 minutes daily”).
- Break It Down: Divide big goals into small, actionable steps.
- Stay Positive: Frame your resolution with a can-do mindset (e.g., “Be active” instead of “Stop being lazy”).
- Track Progress: Use milestones to celebrate small wins.
- Be Flexible: Adjust as needed and focus on progress, not perfection.
2. What are some realistic New Year’s resolutions for seniors?
Seniors can focus on resolutions that enhance their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Examples include incorporating regular exercise into their routine, adopting a nutritious diet, engaging in social activities, and exploring new hobbies.
3. How can seniors stay motivated to keep their New Year’s resolutions?
Setting specific, achievable goals and tracking progress can help maintain motivation. Involving friends or family for support and accountability, as well as celebrating small milestones, can also encourage persistence.
4. Are there any health-related resolutions particularly beneficial for older adults?
Yes, resolutions such as prioritizing daily exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, ensuring adequate sleep, and scheduling regular health check-ups are especially beneficial for seniors to promote overall health.
5. How can seniors incorporate more social interaction into their New Year’s resolutions?
Seniors can join local community centers, enroll in classes, participate in social events, or engage in volunteer work to increase social interactions and build meaningful connections.
Fakiha is an experienced writer at ConsidraCare with an optimistic interest in life. She has a proactive approach to improving health and wellness for seniors. She offers well-researched and thoughtful information to help individuals make informed healthcare decisions for themselves and their loved ones.
