As we come to the start of the year and we are all constantly bombarded by the question, what are your new year’s resolutions? For some the New Year is a natural time of reflection and they have their New Year’s resolutions ready for all who ask. Others may be more like me and dread the question as I rarely take the time to consider this question and decide on a resolution ahead of time. This newsletter is for you (and maybe a bit for me as well).
Here are a few examples of New Year’s resolutions that may be applicable to our elderly residents.
1. Update your essential documents
Sometimes we get so engrossed in our daily lives, updating our essential documents for example living wills, last wishes, financial- and medical documentation are forgotten or overlooked. These documents tend to be disorganised or left undone until an emergency occurs, and the family or friends are left with their proverbial hands in the hair. Make 2021 the year to have those conversations with your family members and updating your documents.
2. Eat healthier and exercise regularly
Eating healthy and exercising regularly are key principals for aging well. There is merit in the saying an apple a day keeps the Doctor away. Try and have fun while doing this and the effort will be worthwhile. Perhaps it’s time to join our movement to music programme if you have not done so already?
3. Commit to using a new piece of technology you have never used before
Technology changes so fast and it is so hard to keep up with the latest gadgets. That’s why we recommend choosing one new technology to learn this year. A Smartphone is a great place to start and will help you connect with family and friends throughout the year, especially during these trying times. Alternatively, learning to Skype on a laptop is also a great way to keep in touch.
4. Downsize
Many elderlies have lived in their homes for decades and have a home full of possessions. If your family is together for the holidays, set aside time to start downsizing while everyone is together to help advise you.
5. Explore Senior Living Options
For our non-resident seniors, the months following the holidays are a great time to consider senior living options. Invite family and friends to explore different places with you and write down what you want in a senior living community. What amenities will you need? What kind of location do you want to live in? Start the process now and make 2021 the year you invest in your future. You are also welcome to contact our social worker to see if Utilitas has an option available that suites your unique needs.
I hope that these possible New Year’s resolutions helped prompt you to consider how best to grow in the coming year. However, it is always important to recognize that self-improvement is accomplished in slow steps and that setbacks on this journey of growth are natural. When things aren’t going according to your planned schedule, don’t give up on yourself. Persevere and you will succeed, we are all going on our own journeys and comparing our progress with others is comparing apples with oranges.
May you have a happy and fruitful New Year!
