New Year’s resolutions aren’t just for the young! A new year’s fresh start is a great opportunity for people of any age to make positive change in their life. Resolutions can be big or small, but to make them as fulfilling as possible, give them a proactive twist. Instead of imposing difficult restrictions on yourself in the name of so-called self-improvement, make a personal pact to make life better for yourself in ways that are easy and even enjoyable! Here are a few ideas:
Find new ways to help yourself or your loved ones with memory problems. Help your loved ones cope with memory loss by making time to participate in activities together, from working on puzzles like Sudoku to simple tasks, like planting seeds for a window garden. These types of activities not only help seniors form new memories, they provide a sense of purpose and challenge which can be just as fortifying.
Have a weekly date night with your friends. Preserving a sense of connection is key to maintaining a positive mental attitude. While quiet time for self-reflection is always helpful, it’s critically important for seniors to socialize regularly with friends and family to keep their spirits up. Try to find a group or activity that meets regularly. When you make a standing date with a friend or social group, whether it’s weekly or monthly, it will always be on your calendar, and you’re less likely to forget about it.
Treat yourself better. Usually, this means eating more healthy foods or starting a new exercise routine, but don’t lose sight of your emotional health. Try not to sweat the “medium” stuff—most of us let life’s little mistakes go by, but even the slightly larger missteps are surprisingly not that big of a deal. Worry less about what you think others want to hear: tell the truth about how you feel. It can be amazingly uplifting. Or, work on your physical and emotional health at the same time; yoga and tai-chi can help you keep in shape, and offer great emotional benefits with meditation and breathing techniques.
Whether you’re a senior or a caregiver, the best thing you can do in 2012 is live life to its fullest. It will bring joy to you and those around you. Happy New Year!
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