Setting New Year’s resolutions is a good way to start a new year, create a positive outlook on life, and a positive attitude in general. The simple act of setting resolutions for oneself can greatly impact your overall health, both mentally and physically. Resolutions help us to set goals and find purpose. One study found that people who feel a sense of purpose in life are 2-4 times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than people who do not.
Resolution Suggestions
The simpler the resolutions, the easier it will be for your senior loved one to keep and continue the resolutions throughout the rest of the year. Discuss some possible resolutions with Mom and get an idea of things that she’s comfortable doing. Remember that, should Mom choose a resolution that has to do with changing her diet or adding exercise that she talks to her doctor first.
Consider resolutions that will make Mom’s life easier and safer. For example, Mom could commit to a resolution to make her home safer by adding more lighting and handrails, and by removing or rearranging items that may cause her to trip, such as small rugs and stray cords. She can set health goals like getting her flu shot, exercising more, reading a certain amount of books in a year, or eating healthier. Work together with your senior mom to make something special. Create a family cookbook full of recipes that have been passed down, or put together a family tree using an online genealogy website like Ancestry.com or MyHeritage.
How You Can Help Mom with Her Resolutions
The best way you can help your senior mom keep her resolutions is by making the same resolutions with her. Sharing a resolution with a loved one can help both of you follow through with your plan. You can be each other’s support and encouragement. While planning Mom’s resolutions with her, take note of which resolutions you discuss that can be applied in your life as well. You and Mom can become gym buddies, join a book club, or start cooking meals together a couple of times a week. Have fun with the planning and execution. Use Mom’s New Year’s resolutions as a chance to make new friends and learn new things.
