With the start of the new year comes a time for annual resolutions. Many people see the changing of the year as an opportunity to start fresh and set some new goals. Unfortunately, the culture surrounding New Year’s resolutions is largely geared toward younger people, and older adults are often left out of the goal-setting conversation.

Resolutions may seem insignificant for seniors, but goal-setting is crucial even as we age. Goals give us a sense of purpose, and a 2019 study found that having a purpose may extend our lives. For seniors, the purpose is more effective at promoting longevity than ceasing smoking, reducing drinking or exercising regularly.

Come this new year, help your senior loved ones set some resolutions to guide their purpose and daily activities. Here are a few ideas to get started.

Understandably, many seniors may avoid dealing with medical and legal documents. However, having records and documents in order is very important. Help them to set up a will and any other legal documents that will reflect their desires. Organize medical documents to ensure they’re easy to access.

Without a career or family to push them into new territories, many older adults get set in a routine. Over time, the routine will become unstimulating and can be very lonely or boring. Encourage your senior to try new things this year. Help them come up with a few safe ideas like reading a new kind of book, learning a new game or trying a craft.

Eating a well-balanced diet is always important, but it’s especially key for older adults to get proper vitamins and nutrients. A great goal for seniors is to eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Use the USDA’s Choose My Plate program as a guide to help your senior come up with some new tasty, healthy meal and snack ideas.

Physical activity is very important for older adults, as it helps to prevent several health issues and reduce fall risk. Mild to moderate activity can even help older adults better manage heart disease, diabetes or arthritis. Work with your senior to come up with different ideas for exercising alone, in a group, indoors and outdoors.

The new year is a great time to help older adults set meaningful goals that will enhance their sense of purpose and guide their daily itineraries. As a caregiver, you can help your senior loved one stay on track with goals and live a happier, healthier life. There are many resources available to help seniors set goals, and CarePatrol is here to help should you need care or rehab options for someone in your family.