What would New Year’s be without a resolution or two? People of all ages can make and complete New Year’s resolutions. Seniors and caregivers can team up to support one another. Or, if a senior has a professional home care provider, that caregiver can help the elder to carry through the resolution. The key to success is making goals that you can complete! How does one do this? It’s important to break down each goal into smaller, more manageable tasks. Try to take a moment every day to focus on your behavior and remind yourself why you chose to do this. 

Some common goals are the following:

• Get some kind of physical activity every day for 10 minutes. 
• Make small changes in your diet. For instance, swap out a rich dessert for a piece of fruit or a yogurt. 
• Stay socially connected. Get on the phone with a friend or grandkids. Visit a neighbor. Play bingo or bridge at the senior center. 
• Engage your brain in some way. Read or have someone read to you. Try a crossword puzzle or another word exercise. 
• Make your home safer and prevent falls by removing throw rugs and keeping a flashlight on the nightstand. Get a personal medical alert device.
• Practice good sleep hygiene. Reduce daytime naps if possible. Get a LOT of light during the day.
• Review your legal documents. Have someone you trust help you to make sure everything is updated. 
• Make sure you are up-to-date with your vaccinations and ask for a medication review with your primary care doctor. 

Wishing you a happy new year and much success with whichever resolution you choose!

It’s important to break down each goal into smaller, more manageable tasks. Try to take a moment every day to focus on your behavior and remind yourself why you chose to do this.