This sounds a bit incredible to even consider, but there are many individuals who were born in the 1920s who are about to experience the 2020s! The new year – and new decade – is only two weeks away. While this particular New Year’s Eve is bound to be a very special celebration for a lot of people, it’s important, of course, to not forget our elderly loved ones. They may not be up for a big party that night. But they sure do deserve to enjoy a super 2020! How can they do it?
Exercise for at least ten minutes every day.
You’re not likely to find any list of health tips that doesn’t include exercise. When it comes to seniors, this fact remains. Older adults are recommended to get in some light exercise for a minimum of ten minutes each day. If a short workout isn’t already part of your everyday routine, make 2020 the year when you make it a daily habit. As Sunrise Senior Living attests, staying physically active is a key to healthy aging.
“That doesn’t mean you have to spend all of your free time exercising, but you should certainly dedicate a portion of your day to fitness,” their website stresses, “If you’re just getting started, Harvard Health Publications recommended committing 10 minutes of your day to exercise, with a gradual increase as it becomes a habit. Eventually, you should be able to dedicate the recommended amount of 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week.”
Give your brain a workout.
A senior’s body isn’t the only thing that requires a little exercise. Exercising the mind is just as important. This is especially vital if the older adult in your life is showing signs of the early onset of dementia. Keeping the mind active will work wonders in helping your elderly parent with memory and other brain functions.
“The more you use your mind, the better it will work,” insists HealthInAging.org, “Read. Do crossword puzzles. Try Sudoku. Socializing also gives your brain a boost, so join a bridge club or a discussion group at your local library or senior center. Or take a course at your local community college — some offer free classes for adults 65 and older.”
Mend fences with loved ones.
No one is immune to arguments. Unfortunately, there are bound to be times when we encounter disputes with loved ones. The hope, naturally, is that those disputes don’t result in broken off relationships. If, however, you’ve lost touch with someone important in your life, why not make the start of the new decade coincide with the start of a renewed relationship with that person?
“Vow to have some tough conversations with your family that you have been putting off,” advises Medical Alert Advice, “If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to draw up a will, name an executor, and discuss plans for your future with your loved ones.”
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we’re super strong believers in keeping seniors safe and comfortable as well as finding ways to help them restore their independence. Why not make 2020 the year you locate a new solution that helps with all of the above? For more information about the many high-quality mobility solutions we offer, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
