Improving health is one of the most common resolutions. In fact, over 60% of Americans surveyed in a study by Data Decisions Group said improving their health was a resolution for this year. Many seniors may feel that it’s too late for them to start building healthy habits that can improve their long-term physical and mental health. But, it’s never too late to incorporate healthy habits to your routine.
Wondering where to begin? You’ve come to the right place! Here are three healthy habits that are easy to implement and can make a big difference to your health – at any age.
Three New Years Resolutions for Seniors
1. Drink More Water
Water makes up about 60% of our body mass, and yet many people don’t drink nearly enough! While the recommended intake is 2 liters (or half a gallon) per day, it can often be hard to drink that much water, especially if you’re not drinking much in the first place. Instead, make your goal to drink more water. Evaluate your current daily liquid intake, and perhaps choose to replace a soft drink at lunch with water, then after a month or two, add an extra glass in the morning with your tea and coffee. By taking smaller steps that work with your routine (instead of trying to make a big leap), you are creating a lifestyle change as opposed to a rule, which is a great strategy to success.
2. Get Moving
Similar to drinking more water, we recommend vowing to move a little more every day, instead of signing up for a crazy new workout regimen. A recent study by the National Institutes of Health found that taking 8,000 to 12,000 steps a day was highly correlated to a healthy lifestyle, and longer life expectancy. If you like to get outside, bring some headphones to listen to music or a book on tape and take a few laps around the block to enjoy some fresh air. Or, if you if mobility is a bit tough for you, maybe take a lap around your living space or do some seated exercises during each commercial break when you’re watching TV. But if you can’t walk that many steps in a day, there are plenty of other activities that are just as beneficial!
Since it is particularly important for senior citizens to get moving, check out our full calendar of fun opportunities to stay active.
3. Find a New Hobby
It is easy to get caught up in a daily routine, but adding more variety and joy is super beneficial! An article by Feast Magazine shared “Hobbies are directly linked with our sense of purpose in life, as they encourage us to learn and feel passionate about something outside of work. When you enjoy an activity, your brain releases feel-good chemicals which can balance hormones, reduce stress and improve the function of your heart and immune system.” Trying a new hobby, like crafting, baking, gardening, or whatever floats your boat, isn’t just great for your mood, is also great for your mind and memory. New hobbies can also help seniors stay social. With that being said, we recommend you embrace this fresh New Year as an opportunity to explore new joys.
Get Assistance with Your New Years Resolutions
Sticking to health-related New Year’s resolutions is hard, but we think starting with drinking more water, getting moving, or finding a new hobby are great starts to healthy habits to implement in 2022! Interested in learning more about how we can assist you or your senior loved one? Learn more about our assisted living options here.