New Year Wellness Goals for Seniors

A new year offers seniors a fresh chance to focus on simple wellness goals that support independence, energy, and overall quality of life. These goals don’t need to be dramatic – small, realistic steps often make the biggest difference.

• Why Realistic Goals Matter

For Older Adults - For seniors, wellness is about feeling your best each day, staying safe, and remaining engaged with the people and activities you enjoy. Setting goals that match your current abilities prevents frustration and helps you build steady, meaningful progress. Always check with your doctor before starting new routines.

• Start With a Senior Wellness

Check-In - Before setting goals, take a moment to assess:

• Physical health: mobility, endurance, chronic conditions

• Mental wellness: memory, mood, stress levels

• Social connections: regular interactions with friends or family

• Nutrition: whether meals are balanced and consistent

• Achievable Physical Activity Goals - Gentle movement is especially important for seniors.

Try:

• Increasing daily steps by 10-20%

• Doing chair exercises twice a week

• Joining senior-friendly classes like tai chi, water aerobics, or gentle yoga

• Adding simple movements – like heel raises – into daily routines

• Nutrition Goals for Senior Health - Small changes can improve energy, digestion, and heart health:

• Add one serving of vegetables per day

• Drink a glass of water with each meal

• Try one new healthy recipe weekly

• Reduce sodium by cooking more at home and reading labels

• Stay Social and Connected -

Social activity plays a major role in senior wellness. Consider:

• One weekly phone or video call with family or friends

• Joining a club, class, or volunteer group

• Accepting at least one social invitation each month

• Don’t Skip Preventive Care -

• Schedule annual checkups and screenings early in the year

• Review medications with your doctor

• Stay current on recommended vaccines

• Track progress – A simple journal can help you stay consistent. Note how you feel each day and celebrate small wins.

• A Healthier Year Ahead - For seniors, wellness isn’t about perfection – it’s about steady, achievable steps toward feeling better and staying active. Here’s to a healthier, happier year ahead!

By Tim Petlin

For more information, contact Right at Home of West Los Angeles at www.rahwestla.com, at 310-313-0600.