New Year Health Tips for Seniors to Stay Fit & Active

The holidays can bring joy and excitement to everyone, especially seniors who get to spend quality time with family and friends. However, as we all know, the holiday season can also be quite hectic. Whether you traveled to visit loved ones or spent time at home during the holidays, it’s important to remember some simple tips that can keep you healthy and happy as you enter the new year.

1. Incorporate Movement Into Your Daily Routine
One of the best ways to stay healthy as you move into the new year is to incorporate regular movement and exercise into your daily routine. Whether you join an exercise class at your local community center or senior living facility or just walk around the neighborhood, getting up and moving around can help keep you energized and agile.

2. Walk After Large Meals
The holidays often mean overindulging, which you may have been a part of during the holiday season. After eating a large meal, take some time to go for a walk or do some light exercise. Not only will this help burn off any extra calories, but it will also help reduce feelings of sluggishness or sleepiness after your meal. It can also help with digestion, prevent spikes in blood sugar, and discourage the common holiday slump that can make it harder to get back into a healthy routine after the holidays.

3. Wash Your Hands Regularly
Whether visiting relatives or hosting gatherings at your own home, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water whenever you come into contact with others and especially before eating or handling food. Keeping your hands clean is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent sickness and disease.

4. Take Time to Rest (Especially After Traveling)
Between shopping, traveling, attending parties and events, and spending time with friends and family, it’s easy to get run down after a busy holiday season. Be sure to rest up and recharge your batteries, so you’re feeling your best in the new year.

5. Drink Plenty of Fluids
Dehydration can be more prevalent among older adults due to medications and a lower fluid volume in their bodies. Staying hydrated can help keep your immune system strong and reduce your risk of illness and infection. In addition to drinking plenty of water, consider sipping on warm fluids like tea or broth, which can offer additional health benefits during the cold winter months.

6. Get Your Flu Shot
As we all know, the flu is highly contagious and spreads quickly during the winter months. Your annual flu shot will protect you and others from sickness this season. Many cities and community centers will host free flu shot clinics to cover as many people as possible during the winter season.

7. Eat Healthy
It’s crucial to maintain a healthy diet all year, but especially following the overindulgence of the holiday season. This means eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables along with lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. When you keep your body fueled with nutritious foods, you’ll be better able to fight off illness and stay energized.

8. Do Something Kind
Whether volunteering at a local food bank or providing gifts to a child in need, there are many ways to show kindness in the new year. Not only does this help others, but it can also improve your mood and overall well-being.

9. Get the Proper Amount of Sleep
Getting the proper amount of sleep will help you feel better mentally and physically, and it can also reduce your risk of falling or other accidents that may occur when you’re tired. Continue to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night during the holidays, and you’ll be able to stay healthy.

10. Take Vitamins and Supplements as Recommended
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, you may have failed to take your daily medications, vitamins, or supplements. To avoid any possible health issues, be sure to take all of your medications and supplements as recommended. Try setting alerts on your phone or creating a reminder in your calendar to help you stay on track.

11. Get Some Sunshine
Finally, get some sunshine and fresh air this year, as it can help keep your body’s natural rhythms in tune. Take a walk around the neighborhood, visit a local park for stress relief, or open up the blinds at home to let the light in. Whatever you do, try to enjoy the natural beauty and joy of the new year!

Enjoy a Stress-Free and Healthy New Year with The 501 at Mattison Estate
At The 501 at Mattison Estate, we understand how important it is for seniors to stay active and healthy through the year, which is why we provide a wide range of activities and services to support their needs. Call us for more information or schedule a tour of our community. You’re going to love it here!