New Year’s Resolutions for the elderly
No matter your age, the New Year is the perfect time for making resolutions and goals for things you want to change in your life. We’ve put together some ideas to help you or an elderly loved-one become more active, healthier and generally feel good.
Do more exercise
The average life expectancy has risen to 80-years-old, which means it is more important than ever to stay mobile as we get older.
Strength and flexibility exercises can help prevent falls and injuries as they improve balance and mobility. Improved muscle strength can also help us function better in general.
A great New Year’s resolution you could make would be to start doing more exercise. It needn’t be too strenuous either, gentle exercises such as yoga or pilates can help improve mobility and flexibility.
A daily walk of just 15 minutes can help keep you active and even improve your social life too as you’ll meet new people on your journey.
You can read all about the importance of exercise for the elderly here.
Be more sociable
If taking up walking isn’t for you, but you would still like to be more sociable, why not try getting to know neighbours or joining a group/day centre?
It’s important to make new acquaintances and friends as we get older to help ward off social isolation and loneliness, however, we understand it can be daunting. Why not read our top tips for making friends and staying sociable here.
Being online is another great way to maintain social connections and support networks. Adults aged between 65 and 74 are almost twice as likely to use a smartphone now compared to 2012. Sixty percent of us now have a Facebook account and one in seven over 65s now use social media sites including Facebook and Twitter.
Why not make it your resolution to get online? You can read all about how being online and using social media can help tackle loneliness in the elderly here.
Eat well
If you’re eating habits have been a bit poor recently, 2018 is the perfect time to get back on track. Start including salmon, broccoli, blueberries and nuts into your diet to ensure you benefit from all the antioxidants and essential fatty acids. You should also include protein to keep your energy levels up and fats such as avocados to help your skin retain water.
It’s important your diet is varied. Lots of different coloured fruit and veggies can help brighten it up and provide all the nutrients you need.
Take up a hobby
You’re never too old to take up a new hobby or skill so why not start in 2018? It’s a great way to keep your mind active and keep you occupied if you spend a lot of time at home alone. Hobbies such as knitting, crochet or sewing can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
Check out our suggestions for some hobbies you can take up at home here.
Give up bad habits
It’s super important to keep your heart healthy and if 2017 was full of bad habits, it’s time to give them up in 2018 and start taking care of yourself. You can start by eating well and exercising regularly, but you should also avoid drinking alcohol and smoking as this can place the biggest strain on your heart. Read our top tips for keeping your heart healthy here and incorporate them into your daily life this New Year.
