As we ease into the new year, many people are working hard on sticking with their resolutions. For some seniors, improving health is at the top of their list.

Getting healthy can be overwhelming, especially for those who are a long way from their goals. You don’t have to change your entire life to improve your health. Small lifestyle changes can be incredibly impactful and are typically easier to stick to than major changes.

4 Healthy Resolutions for Older Adults to Make

Here are a few resolutions that seniors can make for healthy aging:

1.  Stay hydrated.

Several changes occur with age that can increase a senior’s risk of dehydration. Not only does your sense of thirst decrease, but your body also has a harder time conserving water.

Chronic dehydration can make it difficult to adapt to temperature changes and can cause an electrolyte imbalance. Seniors can reduce their risk for dehydration by:

• Drinking a glass of water after every meal
• Eating foods with high water content
• Keeping a refillable water bottle with them on the go

2.  Get enough sleep.

It is a common misconception that you need less sleep as you age. Like most people, seniors need an average of 7 to 8 hours of sleep for optimal health. Studies have even shown a correlation between sleep and dementia.

A few tips for seniors to improve sleep include:

• Waking up and going to sleep at the same time every day
• Consulting with a doctor to rule out any medical conditions that may be disrupting sleep
• Avoiding caffeinated beverages or alcohol before bed, as they can interfere with the duration and quality of sleep

3.  Safeguard the home against falls.

Falls are a leading cause of injuries and death among seniors. They can be caused by a variety of age-related changes, including:

• Weakened sense of balance
• Medication side-effects
• Decreased strength
• Declining eyesight

Seniors can reduce their risk of falling by:

• Removing clutter and items on the floor that can be tripped over
• Installing grab bars in the bathroom
• Making sure there is adequate lighting in the home

4.  Exercise regularly.

Exercise is highly beneficial to a senior’s health. Exercise can help seniors maintain their weight and can even improve some medical conditions. Regular exercise can also reduce the risk of falling or, at the very least, increase the ability to recover from a fall.

A few ways that seniors can incorporate more exercise for healthy aging include:

• Going for a ten-minute walk after every meal
• Taking exercise classes at a local senior center a few times a week
• Joining a nearby gym

Are You Struggling to Improve Your Health?

If you are an older adult struggling to improve or maintain your health, it may be time to explore senior care options. Our senior care advisors can help you locate a community that supports a healthy lifestyle. If you have any questions, please contact us by calling 800-304-8061. Our guidance is always free.