Resolutions To Start 2020 On The Right Foot
“Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” – James Sherman, author
Have you made a New Year’s resolution yet? Most people at least think about change at this time of year. It could be health related, or revolve around money, time, family, or a host of other good intentions. Whatever you want, it’s never too late to try something new. In fact, older adults often have the time to pursue new interests that they put on the back burner while raising a family. Do you want to start a health or exercise habit? Do you want to start a new hobby? How about learning to play an instrument?
We’ve compiled a list of 10 New Year’s resolutions, in no particular order, to get you thinking about personal improvements you would like to make. And we’ve included links to articles on the United website to help further your research:
- Eat healthy
One of the attractions of living at United is the flexible mealtimes and all-day menu. The kitchen is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and features a menu that is available throughout the day.
Residents can choose what to eat, when to eat, and with whom to eat. There is no assigned seating. Plus, the all-day menu gives residents flexibility should they arrive back home after an outing and want a meal or snack.
Of course, getting proper nutrition means preparing quality meals. Meals are based on feedback from residents. When they move in, food interests and issues are discussed with staff and noted in a database. When a resident comes in to eat, the kitchen staff knows what the person prefers and what ingredients to avoid.
2. Keep your brain active
We’ve written extensively on brain health and ensuring the mind stays active as an important component of active aging. Read more at these links:
The value of lifelong learning
We also have a terrific video with professional artists that explains their creative process.
3. Exercise regularly
If you’re new to exercise, start slowly and build your way into a regular routine. You can read more about the importance of regular exercise in this blog article.
4. Get involved
Isolation can seriously affect an older adult’s health. So get involved in community activities to make new friends and stay active. At United, there is a large variety of activities and ways to develop a community of friends.
Here is a link to our activities brochures so you can see the variety of activities available. Here is an article on the importance of community.
As well, United has signed partnership agreements with music and cultural organizations in the city. You can read more about that here.
5. Challenge yourself
Expect more from yourself. Age is no limit. Make the rest of your life the best of your life by doing something you have always wanted to do. Here are articles about a couple of very inspirational people at United.
6. Planning for the future
Moving into a new year often means looking ahead and perhaps preparing to transition from your family home to an older adult community. Finances come into play, as does the psychology of moving. You can read more in the links below:
Top 5 questions to ask yourself when searching for an older adult community
7. Make a new friend
Having someone to share your thoughts with is important for anyone, but especially so for older adults who can often find themselves isolated when friends and family move out of the community. At United, you are surrounded by potential new friends. Read more about new friendships here. And for those with memory issues, United ensures they are included in every activity.
8. Start a journal
One way to keep the mind active and the memories of a lifetime present is by starting a journal. United’s writing programs partner with students from Mount Royal University and St. Mary’s University. You can watch a video about that here. As well, residents can learn more about writing at poetry and writing clubs. Often, music and writing combine nicely to spark the creative impulse. Take a look at this video.
9. Discover a new hobby
Have you ever wanted to learn piano, or create a pot from a handful of clay? United has full art studios, staffed by professional artists to help get you started. Here are links to help you learn more.
10. Decide what’s best for you
Most importantly, decide what is in your best interest. Read, research and talk with your friends. Visit a few older adult communities to understand whether a move makes sense at this stage in your life. You can arrange a tour at United’s communities by clicking on the contact link below. And don’t hesitate to call and ask questions. You deserve the very best in your later years. We talk about that in this article.
Photos by United Active Living, Sherana Productions. Videos by Sherana Productions
Ask us about our short-term respite stays.
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a visit. We are happy to help!
To learn more about life at United’s Fish Creek community, watch this short video.
Or, to find out more about life at United’s Garrison Green, watch this short video.
