While the new year is often associated with setting resolutions, it’s never too late to consider making positive changes in your life, no matter what time of year it is. Whether it’s January, April, or October, taking time to reflect on goals for self-improvement and personal growth is always a good idea. For older adults, this could mean adopting new habits or trying activities that help maintain both mental and physical health. With a focus on well-being, the following new year’s resolution ideas can make 2025 a year of health, happiness, and personal growth.
Take A Step Towards Good Health
One of the most beneficial and accessible forms of exercise for older adults is walking. If you’re not already tracking your steps, it’s worth starting. Numerous studies, including those from the American Heart Association, demonstrate the cardiovascular benefits of walking. For example, the association notes that adults who take around 4,500 steps daily have a 77% lower risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event compared to those who take fewer than 2,000 steps per day.
But walking isn’t the only exercise that’s beneficial. Strength training is another key component of staying healthy as you age. It can help offset the natural loss of muscle mass that occurs over time, and, in turn, it aids in preventing falls. Fall prevention is crucial, as falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that older adults engage in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. This activity should be a mix of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and balance exercises. If you’re unsure where to start or how to modify your current workout routine, it’s always a good idea to consult with your physician to develop a safe and effective fitness plan.
Take Tests You Don’t Need To Study For
A crucial aspect of maintaining health as you age is staying on top of regular medical check-ups. Aging often brings rapid changes in health, and it’s essential to catch any potential issues early. Annual physicals and routine screenings can help identify health concerns before they become more serious.
Some of the key tests recommended for older adults include:
- A routine physical exam
- Vision and hearing tests
- Prostate exam for men
- Breast exam and mammogram for women
- Bone density test to assess the risk of osteoporosis
- Cholesterol and blood pressure screenings
- Colorectal exams
- Vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine or shingles shot
Although this may seem like a lot, your primary care physician can help you prioritize which tests are most important based on your current health status and medical history.
Find Your Crew
We all know that doctor’s visits aren’t the most exciting part of life, but finding joy and companionship is equally important to overall health. Social connections have a profound impact on both mental and physical well-being. According to the University of Michigan, a significant portion of older adults experience feelings of loneliness and isolation. In 2023, 34% of adults between the ages of 50–80 reported feeling isolated, while 37% said they lacked companionship, and 33% had limited contact with others outside their home.
Loneliness can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease, strokes, and dementia, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. To combat loneliness and improve your mental health, it’s essential to find opportunities for socializing and companionship. Here are some ideas to help you connect with others:
- Join a book club
- Start or join a walking group
- Volunteer in your community
- Participate in fitness classes
- Take up an art or gardening hobby
- Enroll in a cooking class
Finding a “crew” to spend time with can help reduce feelings of isolation, keep your social life active, and add enjoyment to your daily routine.
Train The Brain
Just as physical exercise is essential for keeping the body healthy, mental exercise is critical for cognitive health. The brain, like any other muscle, benefits from regular stimulation. Engaging in activities that challenge your cognitive abilities can help protect against memory loss and other cognitive decline associated with aging.
Apps like Duolingo make it easy to learn a new language in a fun and interactive way. But if languages aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to engage your brain. Try learning a new musical instrument, taking up a new hobby, or exploring creative outlets like painting or writing. Additionally, brain games like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or strategy-based board games are great options to keep your mind sharp.
Colonial Vista Senior Living Can Help
At Colonial Vista Senior Living, we support older adults in achieving their health and wellness goals. Whether it’s through physical activity programs, social events, or cognitive training, we help our residents stay active, engaged, and connected.
To learn more about how we support our residents’ physical, mental, and cognitive health, contact our team or schedule a visit by calling us at (509) 436-1580.