“Really, I’m still expected to make those when I’m in my 70’s and 80’s?”, you’re asking yourself about now. Well of course, it’s a tradition to make them, break them, make them, break them, you get it. All kidding aside, I encourage you to have fun with these and focus your resolutions on living a healthy lifestyle so you can enjoy life to its fullest.
Eating properly is a great place to start. Our dietary needs change as we age, and it’s important to understand how what we eat impacts our risk for diseases, mood, and mobility. https://www.myplate.gov/life-stages/older-adults is a great resource for ensuring you maintain a proper diet that is suited for your individual needs and concerns. Incorporating the right foods in the right amounts can help to reduce the development of chronic diseases. Look out for added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium. Protein helps to maintain muscle mass. So, choose foods with high levels of protein. These foods will also help you stay fuller and avoid excessive snacking in between meals. That will help you to stay at a healthy weight.
In addition to healthy, mindful eating, being active is another great resolution. It doesn’t have to be super strenuous or incredibly boring to stay fit. Exercises such as tai chi, water aerobics, walking, and stretching can also help you control your weight, build your muscles and bones, and improve your balance, posture, and mood. Senior communities like Glencroft Center for Modern Aging have plenty of opportunities to exercise solo, or in groups.
If neither of these resolutions speak to you, or you’re already eating healthy and getting active, here’s a few others that may work for you:
- Quit smoking – It’s never too late to quit. You can access the National Cancer Institute’s website SmokeFree60+for resources.
- Limit alcohol consumption – Excessive drinking can make you feel depressed, increase your chances of falling, cause trouble sleeping, interact with your medications, and can contribute to other health problems.
- Give your brain a workout – The more you use your mind, the better it will work. Reading, socializing, taking classes are all great choices.
- Get enough sleep – Older people don’t need less sleep, that is simply not true. Seven to eight hours per night is the recommendation.
It’s simply all about getting healthier and feeling better for many more years to come.
