Making new year’s resolutions might seem like a fruitless activity to the elderly.
However, it can be a motivating pursuit now that the holidays are over. The holidays often bring feelings of sadness and loneliness. Resolutions can be family or individual activity that helps seniors feel hopeful for the future.
Tracking the progress of resolutions over time can even bring a sense of responsibility and meaning to day to day life for seniors.
- Eat More Veggies
- Consider a Multivitamin
- Be Active
- See Your Doctor Regularly
- Take Medication Responsibly
- Guard Against Falls, try our home safety checklist
- Drink Less Alcohol
- Exercise Your Cognitive Skills
- Quit Smoking
- Speak Up When Your Feeling Down
- Get Enough Sleep
The elderly know all too well about failed resolutions. Most resolutions fail because they are too vague, there is no realistic plan, or they are based on what someone else (or society) is telling them to change. However, no matter our age, there is always an opportunity for change.
When reflecting on which of the ten resolutions above are right for you or an aging loved one, consider making actionable steps. Katherine L. Milkman, an associate professor of operations information and decisions at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania told the New York Times that to keep resolutions, they need to be CLEAR.
For example, if the goal is to eat more veggies create a meal plan, so you know what vegetables to pick up at the store and exactly how much to eat daily. Then, create a weekly chart where you can mark your veggie intake for the day as complete. When sharing examples of clear resolutions, Katherine said, “Five pounds in the next two months — that’s going to be more effective…” than setting the simple goal of “losing weight.”
The elderly often lose excitement for daily life without activities and engagement. Goals give us a sense of purpose and drive. Practical resolutions can help the older adults find motivation for healthy living. So, if your aging loved one still has the holiday blues, consider helping them make a change with the resolutions above. Remember, clear resolutions stick!
DISCLAIMER: This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other healthcare providers. Always consult your healthcare provider about your medications, symptoms, and health problems.
