New Year’s Resolutions for Seniors

It’s a new year and a great time to set some goals to keep your life enriched, active and full of all the things you like to do! As we age, it’s important to be proactive about our health and wellbeing to ensure maximum independence for years to come.
Below are some tips to consider as you enter the new year and look to make some positive changes to your lifestyle!
- Safety-proofing your home: According to the World Health Organization, about a third of seniors fall each year. In Canada, falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations. Let the new year be the best time to take new measures or strengthen old ones to help make your home safe from preventable falls. Read more tips here to keep yourself safe at home.
- Foot care as self-care: Three out of four seniors develop serious foot problems as they age which can impact quality of life. Foot care is also an essential part of self-care that many don’t think about until they’re in a lot of pain and discomfort. Specially trained foot-care nurses can provide treatment, information and support that can help with the promotion of healthy feet. Here are more tips to maintain healthy feet and strategies to avoid foot complications in the future.
- Stay active and get more rest: Regular exercise can improve your balance, reduce falls and prevent injuries. While staying active can improve your sleep, getting rest is also just as important. Adults 65 and older should be sleeping 7-8 hours a day. If you are having problems sleeping, talk with your doctor to help you get a better night’s sleep. Also read Health Canada’s physical activity tips for older adults here.
- Home care: Even if you are dealing with health conditions, you can take advantage of home care options to empower you to maintain both your health and independence. Options are available to support you with grocery shopping, light house cleaning, as well as personal support with grooming, bathing or medication management.
- Continue doing what you love: Growing older is no reason to stop doing what you love. Studies have shown that doing more of what you love reduces stress and your risk of a heart disease or stroke. Find new hobbies, continue staying connected with friends and family, or consider companions who can help you continue doing what you love by accompanying you along all your day to day journeys!
If you or your loved one needs assistance to maintain an independent lifestyle, Spectrum Health Care is here to help you. You can benefit from the expertise of our experienced care givers from in-home foot care services to our Seniors for Seniors companions that can help you with the home and personal support you need.
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