You’re Never Too Old for Resolutions

Perhaps you think resolutions are a waste of time or you’ve given up on setting goals for yourself at this age; however, opting out of resolutions may mean you’re not looking toward the future, says geriatric psychiatrist Mark Nathanson. And being interested in what tomorrow will bring is critical for maintaining good mental health.

While you don’t have to call them “resolutions” (that may be too intimidating), it’s important to still have dreams, aspirations, and intentions. Here are some simple ways to turn those out-of-reach resolutions into doable – and even enjoyable – things to strive for this year.

Since you aren’t too old for resolutions:

1. Take small steps.

As you age, it’s important to try new activities and learn new skills. But sometimes jumping in with both feet can be so scary that you end up giving up before you even begin! Instead of joining a gym or hiring a personal trainer, start by walking or swimming for just 10 minutes a day. Rather than signing up for guitar lessons, ask a friend to teach you a few chords or check out a YouTube video and play alone for a while. Before enrolling in a continuing education course, do some reading on the topic first. As you figure out whether this activity interests you and develop confidence, those small steps may lead to larger leaps. However, the key to success is doing it at your own pace. https://caringplaces.com/actionable-and-healthy-resolutions-for-seniors/

Related: How to Maintain Your Motivation to Learn

2. Choose goals that don’t feel like goals.

Resolutions don’t have to be dreaded tasks or deprivations (actually, that’s the quickest route to failure!). They can also be projects you’ve always wanted to accomplish like researching your family tree, reupholstering your grandmother’s sofa, or planting a native flower garden. Working through that “always meant to do” list won’t require pushing yourself or regretting the commitment you’ve made because you’ll enjoy the process – and you’ll still feel the fulfillment that comes from accomplishing something important.

3. Make it fun.

For most seniors, at the top of their list of resolutions are exercise, eating right, and staying mentally sharp, all of which can feel like work. Why not make your resolutions fun instead? Buy a rebounder, walk a dog, or play pickleball with your to get your exercise in, swap nutritious recipes and slowly transform your diet with your friends to support you or participate in regular card games or other forms of play to prevent cognitive decline.

Related: Three Healthy-Eating Resolutions You Can Keep

4. Convince others to join you.

No matter if you’re learning to paint, making a quilt, or eating a green vegetable every day, the chances that you will cross the finish line can increase by up to 46% if you have others working at the same goal with you. Joining a club, enrolling in a class, or just encouraging your friends to join you will give you the motivation and accountability you may need to stick with it to achieve your goals.

Bottom line: “Just get up and do something. Go to a senior center, learn a new skill, go to an art group or museum or gym,” says Dr. Nathanson. “There’s no set amount of time or days or commitment. Do what you can. Just do it.”