Starting the New Year With a Great Resolution

Happy New Year! During the past few weeks, approximately 100 million Americans will enthusiastically proclaim
their New Year’s resolutions, with grand plans to exercise more, lose weight, stop smoking, save
more money or to eat healthier.
If your goal is to continue to live your life independently in the comfort of your own home, then
attention to the following resolutions might be helpful:
1. I will exercise by walking a distance of one mile at least twice a week. It’s tempting to stay
in your robe and slippers, especially if you live alone, but getting up and out may set the tone for a
constructive afternoon. Start your day with a walk.
2. I will make plans more often to call a friend to take in a play or a movie, stop for a bite to eat
and chit-chat about this and that. It takes effort to schedule time with old friends when mind and
body tell you to stay at home and catch up on your TV programs or the newspaper, or even sleep.
Make the effort to keep in touch and socialize.
3. I will clean out my closets and drawers, discarding worthless possessions which I haven’t
used for two or three years. It is amazing how much we can accumulate, thinking that we will find
a use for that gadget or article of clothing that has been gathering dust for years. Many charities will
gratefully accept your donations, and you will have a more organized place to live.
4. I will volunteer my time for a worthy cause. Organizations love senior citizens for their loyalty,
work ethic, and their attendance habits. There are many places to volunteer: elementary schools,
Meals on Wheels, church organizations, hospitals or the library. Pick one that interests you and
showcase your time and talents.
5. I will take an adult education class at my nearby high school. It’s always good to learn
something new, maybe a foreign language, a computer class or a free course at your local college.
The opportunity to meet new people with similar interests is a bonus when taking part in a new class.
6. I will read at least one book each month. So many books and so little time! Set aside a certain
time during the day to do some serious reading. Keeping your mind active is vital as you advance in
years. Local libraries are excellent resources and a great place to spend some quiet time perusing
the “stacks”.
7. I will reduce frivolous spending. Impulse buying and picking up unnecessary items, whether
it’s food, clothing or household items, may be a symptom of bor edom. Start a new hobby instead.
8. I will Go Green. Recycling your old newspapers, bottles, or even clothing is helping our
planet to survive. Cutting back on fuel consumption, both at home and in your vehicle, is also a
benefit. Collect rainwater to use in your garden, lower your thermostat, and become conscious of
other ways to conserve energy, power and water.
9. I will do one good thing for myself each day. Remember, you are worth the indulgence. You
have lived this long and most likely have achieved many things, so reward yourself with something
small each day. You deserve it!
Regardless of whether you are a fan of resolutions or have never made one in your life, we resolve
to wish you a Happy New Year filled with many successes, great health, and much happiness!
Remember, if you need a little help in achieving those resolutions, don’t hesitate to give us a call…

Resources:
“Top Ten New Year’s Resolutions for Senior Citizens”. Mary Carol Herwood. Yahoo.
www.associatedcontent.com
This information brought courtesy of:
Hearthside Home Care Inc.
4002-A Spring Garden St
Greensboro, NC 27407
336-808-1351
www.HearthsideHomeCare.com