As the last box of Christmas decorations is placed on a shelf in the basement, many people have already compiled most of their new year's resolutions. Before tacking your favorites up on your refrigerator, consider helping an elderly loved one make their own list of healthy goals for 2012.
When you saw your elderly relatives this holiday season, did they look as well as they said? If you noticed a decline in your senior's health, you're not alone. Start the year off right by helping to keep the seniors in your life healthy and active; it's easier than you think! Here are some suggestions:
• Take them to visit a medical practitioneR
To really start the new year with a clean slate, make sure your senior visits their general doctor early to assess their medical health. This way, you are both confident that all medications are up to date and you have an understanding of areas that need improvement.
• Exercise their body
If your senior is anything like me, they will appreciate having a set routine that they can see daily and cross off upon completion. Even a little exercise can make a huge difference in muscle tone, balance and body image. Going on a walk is a great way to stay active. Suggest they bring a friend as a companion and motivator!
•Exercise their mind
Maintaining a practiced mind is just as important as a healthy body. Consistent stimulation ensures a sharp memory and can even delay Alzheimer's disease. Starting a new hobby, participating in a group at the local senior center or even a weekly board game night are all great ways to enhance mental stimulation. Companionship is one of the essential ingredients of well being for all of us, so don't underestimate the importance of social interaction and a positive mental outlook.
•Alter the grocery list
It is important that the food and beverages your loved ones consume are conducive to their lifestyle. One important step is cutting down on alcohol and caffeine as these substances are diuretics that lead to dehydration, especially in warmer months. Eating alone is another common factor in malnutrition. Be sure to educate your senior on eating smaller portions from the major food groups.
Remember that once you have your list of resolutions, the hardest part is yet to come. It is estimated that around 45 percent of Americans make resolutions to improve their health each year. Of this ambitious demographic, 75 percent will give up by February. Make sure that you and your senior are in the group that makes strides in upholding a healthy lifestyle this year.
Reach Kinnefors at [email protected].
When you saw your elderly relatives this holiday season, did they look as well as they said? If you noticed a decline in your senior's health, you're not alone. Start the year off right by helping to keep the seniors in your life healthy and active; it's easier than you think! Here are some suggestions:
• Take them to visit a medical practitioneR
To really start the new year with a clean slate, make sure your senior visits their general doctor early to assess their medical health. This way, you are both confident that all medications are up to date and you have an understanding of areas that need improvement.
• Exercise their body
If your senior is anything like me, they will appreciate having a set routine that they can see daily and cross off upon completion. Even a little exercise can make a huge difference in muscle tone, balance and body image. Going on a walk is a great way to stay active. Suggest they bring a friend as a companion and motivator!
•Exercise their mind
Maintaining a practiced mind is just as important as a healthy body. Consistent stimulation ensures a sharp memory and can even delay Alzheimer's disease. Starting a new hobby, participating in a group at the local senior center or even a weekly board game night are all great ways to enhance mental stimulation. Companionship is one of the essential ingredients of well being for all of us, so don't underestimate the importance of social interaction and a positive mental outlook.
•Alter the grocery list
It is important that the food and beverages your loved ones consume are conducive to their lifestyle. One important step is cutting down on alcohol and caffeine as these substances are diuretics that lead to dehydration, especially in warmer months. Eating alone is another common factor in malnutrition. Be sure to educate your senior on eating smaller portions from the major food groups.
Remember that once you have your list of resolutions, the hardest part is yet to come. It is estimated that around 45 percent of Americans make resolutions to improve their health each year. Of this ambitious demographic, 75 percent will give up by February. Make sure that you and your senior are in the group that makes strides in upholding a healthy lifestyle this year.
Reach Kinnefors at [email protected].