Making New Year’s resolutions might seem like a cliché as you age. But age is just a number! It should never limit you from achieving great things in your life. A new year is usually a terrific opportunity to reflect on your life and determine what you want to improve or focus on. Want to have a good start in 2023? Here are five New Year’s resolutions that seniors in 55+ communities in Port Charlotte, FL should consider making before ushering in the New Year.
Eat Healthy Food
Give your body the nutrients it needs by eating well-balanced meals and keeping track of your calorie consumption. You should include nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seafood, lean meats and poultry, beans, nuts and seeds in your regular meals. If you have a medical condition, find out what foods you should and should not include in your diet. To protect against serious health issues, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends minimizing your intake of fatty meat, sugar, butter, salt and pre-packaged meals.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise is often at the top of everyone’s list of New Year’s resolutions, yet it is one of the hardest habits to stick with. Maybe it’s because you haven’t discovered a fitness regime that suits your lifestyle, age and body type. You can start with low-impact exercises like walking, stretching and yoga, which are beneficial for your joints. These simple exercises can also improve your quality of sleep, lower your blood pressure, lessen anxiety and strengthen your heart.
Get Enough Sleep
A good night’s sleep is incredibly crucial for seniors. Your body needs seven to nine hours of sleep every night. However, getting enough sleep can become a challenge as we age. This could be a result of heightened anxiety or a medical-related condition. If you or your family member is experiencing difficulty sleeping, this coming year could be the perfect time to start some new sleep habits or consult with a specialist to figure out what is causing your sleep problems.
Quit Smoking and Drinking
Giving up smoking or drinking is a great way to start the New Year! There are significant health risks associated with these habits. Smoking and drinking can destroy your body’s healthy cells and make you more susceptible to illnesses. Quitting these bad habits can be tough, but with the right tools and resources, you can accomplish it! There are several tobacco and alcohol cessation programs available to assist you. You can find out more about these programs by consulting your doctor.
Discover Your Hidden Potential
It’s natural to let go of your hobbies, especially when life becomes hectic when you were working. However, now that you have retired, what better way to spend your golden years than by taking up an old favorite hobby like reading a novel or discovering a brand new one? Learning a new hobby is a fantastic way to add some fun and purpose to your life. In fact, studies suggest that engaging in hobbies can increase your lifespan, boost your confidence and help you grow spiritually.
At our retirement community, we offer many exciting activities that can enrich our residents’ everyday lives. Contact us today to learn more about our senior living programs!
