The start of a new year is often a time when we make resolutions to improve our lives. For many, this means making healthier life choices, spending more time with family and friends and doing more of what brings us joy. January is also International Quality of Life Month, which can serve as a meaningful reminder that enhancing our health, happiness and overall well-being starts with small steps and consistent habits.
For seniors in Virginia, quality of life is shaped by many interconnected factors such as physical and emotional health, social connections, cognitive stimulation and having a sense of purpose and belonging. According to an article published by The University of Alabama at Birmingham, there are proactive steps older adults can take every day to boost their quality of life in big and small ways.
Physical Health
Getting healthier doesn’t have to mean making major life changes all at once. Making small daily choices can add up to big improvements over time.
Nutrition
Nutritionally this could look like swapping out dessert for fruit a few days a week or adding more healthy fats like avocadoes and more lean proteins like fish and chicken to your weekly menu. You could also shake things up and make dinner more interesting by trying new recipes that incorporate ingredients that fuel your body and boost your energy levels. If you need ideas or inspiration, check out these healthy recipes from the National Institutes of Health.
Exercise
For many seniors, chronic health conditions like arthritis can make physical activity challenging, especially in the winter months. But you don’t have to engage in an hour-long high-intensity workout to experience the benefits of exercise. Taking a 30-minute walk, swimming, or taking a tai chi or yoga class are gentle, low-impact ways to keep moving and improve cardiovascular health, balance, coordination and flexibility. If winter weather makes it challenging to get outdoors or drive to the gym, online workouts like these free classes offered by the AARP help you stay active in the comfort of your own home.
Emotional Health
Emotional health is just as important as physical health for your overall well-being, and they are often interconnected. Stress, anxiety and depression can impact brain health, appetite, memory, digestion and sleep. Physical activity, meditation, and social support networks can help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, but it is important to seek professional help if symptoms feel overwhelming or unmanageable. If driving is difficult this time of year, you can schedule telehealth appointments to connect with mental health professionals online
Social Engagement and Purpose
Building meaningful relationships and participating in activities that fill you with joy and a sense of purpose are critical to your quality of life, helping you to reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, improve memory and cognitive function and increase feelings of fulfillment and happiness. Scheduling regular lunch dates with friends or weekly or monthly get-togethers with family can ensure you are staying connected. If mobility or winter weather make meeting in person challenging, you can still meet up virtually through FaceTime or Zoom to catch up with those you love. Activities like volunteering, mentoring or trying out a new hobby not only give you a sense of purpose—they can also help you connect with others who share your passions and values.
Quality of Life is a Top Priority at Trio Healthcare
At Trio Healthcare, we believe everyone deserves to thrive and live a life full of joy and purpose. We deliver personalized rehabilitation therapy services to seniors in Virginia who have experienced an injury, surgery or illness, so they can get back to enjoying the vibrant, active life they love. We also offer 24/7 skilled nursing care, assisted living, long-term care and respite care. Contact us to learn more.