When younger we may have promised ourselves a new car or an exciting vacation but as the years marched on our resolutions have become more realistic. Let’s look at some customary resolutions!
Physically Fit
The first step is always the hardest. Have an exercise buddy for moral support. Join a community exercise group and make a strong commitment to stay active. Don’t worry if you are not athletically inclined. Stay motivated. There really is an exercise for everyone at every stage. Physical activity helps mental stability so it’s a win-win resolution.
Body and Mind Connection
If you’ve been thinking you would like to do more to keep your mind alert here are additional tips to keep your mind in shape.
- Learn a new skill or hobby. Try woodworking, painting or pottery and give your masterpieces as gifts.
- Reduce stress. Think less about long-standing obligations. Perhaps it’s time to start letting someone else worry about the planning and maintenance and meals and Focus on yourself and concentrate on what make you happy.
- Books, puzzles and listening to music, keeps your mind active. Play trivia, a board game or enjoy a social
get-together.
Social connections are essential to staying sharp. Those books you’ve read? Join a book club. The ice cream social? GO. New play in town? Buy the tickets. You are only as old as you feel.
Get More Rest
How many times have you started your day before you were ready? Woken up in the middle of the night with worries about family and friends, or even concerns about yourself and the next stage of life? How will you manage the inevitable changes accompanying age?
Contrary to popular belief older adults do not need less sleep than their younger counterparts. Every age needs between 7 and 8 hours of sleep. A comfortable personal sleep cycle is important.
This is a new year! Don’t tolerate interrupted sleep. If your resolution included having more shut-eye, you are headed in the right direction.
A Time and A Space
At one point in our lives we needed more space and kept more “stuff,” especially while raising a family. As empty nesters we now have homes with unused rooms, dining room tables not being used and cars we purchase and maintain, but don’t drive as much. It is time to downsize.
After living in your home for years there could be quite a collection of things. Paperwork and mail piled up on the kitchen counter,15 empty paint cans in the corner of the garage and vacation brochures piled to the ceiling. Today should be the day to begin the de-cluttering process.
PRO TIP: Sometimes it’s not so easy. There are a lot of sentimental items you need to sort through. Place everything into three piles: keep, toss, sell/give away. Sit down and make a list to get started. If it’s something you think would make a good heirloom keep it, but if you’re still holding on to a pattern for a macramé vest from 1970, it might be time to just let it go.
Bridge to Better Living® is here to help you. We are an excellent source of information for Senior Living Communities and are experienced in finding the most appropriate community. Your preferences matter. We will happily help you to meet your 2018 resolutions.
Additionally, we offer support throughout the entire transition and beyond. Click here to review our services.