Cheers to the new year and new decade everyone, and with each January comes resolution season. We always find January to be a great time to hit the reset button and put into place a few achievable goals to make the new year happy and healthy for yourself and those around you. Self-care should be a top priority for everyone, each and everyday, and it’s something that’s important to practice, no matter your age — and older adults are no exception! Read on for some of our tips we recommend for seniors and their caregivers alike…
Healthy Diet and Exercise
Making time for fitness and maintaining a healthy diet should be top priorities to keep our mind and bodies strong. No matter your mobility, there are a plethora of ways to exercise the mind and body, and for caregivers, it’s important to find ways to help your clients stay active — not to mention it’s a great way to keep yourself active at the same time!
It’s easy to find excuses or to move less as we age, and the same goes with our diets. But make it a priority to do something active each day and be mindful of the nutrients and ingredients you’re putting into your body. There are so many fast and easy, healthy meal options on the market now, and many of our caregivers are also eager to help with the grocery shopping and cooking to help maintain that healthy diet. Good nutrition and physical health go hand in hand with emotional health and even immune support.
Sleep and Relaxation
Rest and relaxation are essential for seniors, yet so many of us aren’t getting enough sleep. We recommend anywhere from 7-10 hours as a healthy amount of sleep and it’s important to listen to your body and rest it when it needs it.
Don’t fight the nap if you know it’ll keep you alert and stimulated for the rest of the day, and caregivers, it’s important to recognize the sleep needs of your clients as well. Making sure you have enough sleep will help with cognition, balance, immune and even emotional health (especially in preventing depression). And caregivers, don’t forget to sleep and relax as well, it’ll help you be the best version of yourself you can be!
Hobbies and Activities
As we age, it’s important to still prioritize doing the activities we love doing, and to find new ones as well to keep us engaged and alert. This can help stave off depression and even help with overall cognitive health. There are so many hobbies and activities that seniors and caregivers can enjoy together as well, from day trips to areas that bring up fond memories and museum visits to cooking together, creating art or even playing games. Reading and sing-a-longs are other great activities you can do together — tapping into mental stimulation, imagination and fun socialization.
If you’d like any additional tips or support, our Seniors Helping Seniors, Greater Boston & Metrowest staff are always here to help. Give us a call today at (617) 877-3163.