Many people have cast aside their New Year's resolutions by the end of January, but who says resolutions should only be made at the start of the year? There is no time like the present to commit to a brand new goal or habit, particularly for older adults trying to improve health and wellness.
We’ve got six suggestions you can implement today to begin to boost senior health and wellness. Choose one to start, or jump right into all of them to attain the greatest benefit:
Schedule a physical. Rather than waiting for an injury or illness to contact the physician, a yearly check-up is an excellent way for seniors to remain on top of their own health and potentially prevent problems before they occur.
Get physical. With the doctor’s approval and recommendations in hand, begin a new exercise routine – together! Working out with an older adult you love enables you to motivate one another and function as accountability partners. Commit to sticking with it for at least 21 days, after which it should be an ingrained, enjoyable habit you will wish to continue.
Stay connected. Help the senior maintain friendships and contact with friends and family to reduce the chances of isolation and loneliness – something we have all become too familiar with throughout the pandemic. Offer transportation when necessary for dinner dates, or with setting up technology to stay virtually in contact.
Keep vaccinations up-to-date. Along with COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, pneumonia, seasonal influenza, and shingles vaccines should be up to date. With age comes an increased risk for severe effects from these illnesses, so vaccinations become even more important.
Don’t overlook mental health. A mental health provider can help determine if depression, anxiety, or any other concerns need to be addressed, offering both therapeutic tools and medication if needed. Maintaining mental sharpness through brain enrichment activities will also help with the natural cognitive decline that occurs in aging.
Monitor what you eat. If the fridge and pantry are full of fatty or empty-calorie foods, replace them with proteins, whole grains, fresh veggies and fruits, and low-fat dairy products. An extreme change in diet may be overwhelming and difficult to adhere to, so start simple with one replacement at first – carrot sticks instead of potato chips, for example – and work up to a healthier overall diet.
The Care Company, an expert provider of at home help for seniors in Toronto and nearby areas, is here to help seniors in achieving these and any other goals with customized in-home care and companionship. From transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments and exercise classes to grocery shopping and preparing healthy meals, all while giving socialization a much-needed boost, we’re empowering seniors to live their best lives each and every day. Reach out to us at (416) 422-2273 or use our online form to learn more about how we can help an older adult you love boost senior health and stay safe and independent at home!