Health Upp With another year behind you, and another one about to start, now’s the perfect time to think about your health. It’s never too late to get started on your wellness goals, no matter your age.
Here are some New Year’s resolutions that can help you make 2023 your healthiest yet. Whether you focus on one or try them all at once, they can help you improve your physical health, boost your mental well-being, and upgrade your quality of life.
1. Get Moving
Many people set New Year’s resolutions to exercise more, and it’s a good one to start off this list. Regular exercise plays an essential role in your health and quality of life. It can improve your strength, boost your immune system, prevent disease, lift your mood, and reduce the risk of falls.
That said, exercising can be a tough resolution to achieve if you don’t have moral support. It’s easy to put off your workout when it’s just you.
If you need motivation to get up and moving, join a senior fitness class. Big cities like Toronto have a long list of classes for you to try out, including yoga, tai chi, and aquafit. Moving with others under the guidance of an instructor can turn the chore of exercising into something safe and fun, which can help you stick with this goal when others give up.
2. Consider At-Home Help
If you’re like most people living in Toronto, one of your long-term health goals is to age in place. According to a recent survey, 91% of all seniors living in Ontario want to live in their homes as long as possible, regardless of their changing health needs.
If you want to age in place, you need to start thinking about how you can make this a reality. Take the time this new year to determine what you’ll have to do to live safely and independently in the comfort of your home.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with a life-altering condition, you don’t have to give up on your hopes for independence. The best senior care Toronto has to offer provides a range of health care professionals to assist you in the comfort of your own home. You can even find senior care in Toronto that specializes in dementia and palliative services.
Thinking about these issues in advance can help you plan for every contingency, including when your mobility or health fails.
3. Eat a Healthier Diet
If you spend the holidays indulging in second helpings of rich meals and sweet treats, you might set a goal to eat better in the new year. The food you eat fuels your body, so you want to make sure you get enough nutrients in a day.
While you don’t have to swear off tasty snacks for the rest of 2023, a balanced diet prioritizes healthy ingredients. Try to limit saturated fats, red meat, processed foods, and refined sugars. Instead, focus on adding leafy greens, fruits, legumes, nuts, and whole grains to your plate.
Eating well can also build a better immune system and reduce your risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and dementia.
4. Stay Socially Connected
Maintaining social contact is important for mental and emotional happiness. Join clubs, take classes, or participate in community events to stay engaged and interact with others. Additionally, technology can help bridge the gap by enabling virtual communication with loved ones.
5. Get Enough Sleep
Quality sleep is vital for seniors’ health. Establish a regular sleep plan and create a comfortable sleep environment. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. If you’re having trouble sleeping, consult your doctor to identify any underlying issues.
6. Engage in Brain-Boosting Activities
Keep your mind sharp by engaging in cognitive activities. Reading, puzzles, crosswords, and learning new skills are great ways to challenge your brain and prevent cognitive decline.
7. Schedule Regular Check-ups
Don’t skip your medical appointments. Regular check-ups can help detect and manage health conditions early on. Discuss vaccinations, screenings, and any concerns you may have with your healthcare provider.
8. Practice Stress Reduction
Chronic stress can negatively impact health. Practice relaxation methods such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga to manage stress and promote a sense of calm.
9. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is vital for maintaining bodily functions. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider reducing your intake of sugary drinks and caffeine.
10. Volunteer and Give Back
Engaging in volunteer activities can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Find opportunities to give back to your community, whether through local organizations or online platforms.
New Year, New You
The New Year is a chance to refresh your habits and drop those that support a healthy lifestyle. Consider these resolutions to improve your well-being and quality of life in 2023.