New Year’s Resolutions for Seniors

Now that the confetti has fallen and we are several weeks into 2018, it’s time to get serious about the changes we want to make in the new year. Many people get caught up in the excitement and tradition of setting resolutions on January 1st, yet fail to see them through. What about seniors?

Improved quality of life and healthy aging are two common goals for this group; those who live in a skilled nursing facility have the amenities to achieve these goals at their fingertips. We have 4 tips to help seniors keep these resolutions in 2018.

1. Take Advantage of Activities

Many able-bodied seniors do not get enough exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle. At West Hartford Health & Rehabilitation Center, we make it easier to find exercise classes and other group activities to keep older adults moving. In addition to Zumba, bowling and group power sessions, residents can request new activities for our Recreation Calendar. Any given day, there are multiple events happening!

2. Make Smart Meal Choices

Does your aging loved one’s diet consist of bacon breakfasts and sodium-packed TV dinners? As we get older, we can lose the ability to cook proper meals for ourselves. Our residents dine on gourmet meals made with fresh local ingredients. The menu offerings change with the seasons, so there are different nutritious choices all the time. We also have in-house registered dieticians who can help devise diet plans based on individual needs.

3. Interact with Others

Studies show that seniors who experience boredom often are more likely to pass away at an earlier age. It is important that we provide opportunities for our residents to be social. Depending on what interests your loved one, there is likely to be someone with similar passions. We offer religious services, lectures, craft programs and more, where residents can interact with one another in a comfortable environment.

4. Keep the Mind Active

If we do not work our brains, they will not work for us. Not only do we naturally lose brain cells with age, but older individuals can develop cognitive diseases that impair brain function. To keep the mind working, it’s important to set aside time to read the newspaper or do a crossword puzzle. At West Hartford Health & Rehabilitation Center, we also hold discussion groups and have a Library on Wheels program to keep residents mentally active.
 
Our staff is dedicated to helping residents maintain a healthy lifestyle all year round. If your loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, needs help with injury recovery or seeks long-term care, West Hartford Health & Rehabilitation Center specializes in these services. Contact us today to learn more about our admissions process!