It is hard to believe it is already 2015. It seems like just yesterday we were enjoying the summer heat at the pool. Either way – the New Year is here, which means one significant thing for many people – resolutions. Many use New Year’s resolutions as a way to start fresh in the New Year and tackle items on a bucket list or make positive changes. I thought it would be interesting to touch on some suggestions for New Year’s resolutions for both seniors and their caregivers – just in case you are struggling to make a list.
And, by the way, it is said that goals that are written down are more likely to be achieved than those that are just discussed and stored only in one’s memory. First, lets look at some good ideas for New Year’s resolutions for seniors or those receiving geriatric care or home health care.
- Start a new hobby: Is there anything you have ever wanted to try and couldn’t find the motivation or a good time to start? January is the perfect month for trying new things and challenging yourself mentally and physically with a new hobby or activity. Playing the guitar, sewing or collecting coins are great hobbies for seniors and those receiving geriatric care.
- Work on your fitness: As long as your geriatric care professional or home health nurse says it is safe, try to find ways to stay active and work on your cardiovascular fitness. Walking, gardening and playing golf are a couple great ways to stay fit. Keeping a high level of activity helps with overall health and can be a part of a therapy program or home health care treatment plan.
- Take time to be more thankful: Many times, unfortunately, when one is receiving therapy for an ailment or home health care to treat a geriatric condition, it is hard to stay positive. Consistent pain is not a fun circumstance for anyone. But, with the start of a fresh, New Year, it would be a great resolution to stay positive and constantly look for things to be thankful for.
For caregivers of geriatrics care patients, I have a couple ideas for resolutions to help them start fresh in 2015:
- Take more time to care for yourself: I understand that caregiving can sometimes be a thankless job that leaves you feeling completely spent. It is vital for caregivers to take time each week and sometimes, a short time each day, to do something for themselves that they enjoy and allows them to recharge their batteries, so to speak. Try reading a chapter of a book, listening to your favorite music or going on a run to focus on your mental and physical health.
- Focus on your nutrition: While in some ways this is connected to the topic above, many caregivers fail to put the necessary time into their personal physical health, especially nutrition. Because they spend so much time caring for their loved one or home health patient, they fail to eat balanced meals filled with lean protein, vegetables and fruits. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, it can be much easier to eat packaged foods. In 2015, make it a resolution to eat fresh, nutrition-packed meals each day.
What other suggestions do you have for New Year’s resolutions for seniors and caregivers?