The New Year is here!

That means the opportunity for a fresh start has arrived! Take a moment to reflect on your life as a whole; your health, your family, your community involvement, your work, etc. in order to understand what you're most passionate about changing.

Your 2020 goals should focus on bettering your overall health, both physically and mentally. Make it be attainable and reasonable so it's a constant priority that you're truly passionate about changing. Here are a few New Year's resolutions for seniors:

1. Exercise for 10 minutes every day
Staying physically active is key to healthy aging. You should dedicate a portion of your day to some type of movement; walking, yoga, bike riding, etc.

2. Explore new volunteer opportunities
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community!  It also benefits your own health because it provides a sense of accomplishment and brings fulfillment to life. It also connects you with like-minded individuals, which is great for your mental well-being. Find a local organization in your community that evokes passion and satisfaction.

3. Spend more time with the grandkids
Most older adults can agree that spending time with the grandchildren is so special but is often limited to special occasions. Staying connected with your grandchildren on a regular basis will strengthen the bond between you and keep the entire family closer together. This year, set plan with your family members for more frequent visits - even a new tradition one Sunday per month.

4. Challenge your brain regularly
Giving your brain a "workout" is just as crucial as physical workouts. Challenging your brain regularly keeps your cognitive skills sharp and reduces your chance of experiencing memory loss as you age. This year, make time to play games that'll force your mind to work in different ways - crossword puzzles, sodoku, scrabble, etc.

5. Make healthier dessert decisions
It's easy to reach for that sugary treat after dinner, especially around the holidays. But consuming unhealthy dessert choices night after night may eventually lead to weight gain, high blood pressure and other chronic issues. Fruits and dark chocolate make excellent natural alternatives if you need to satisfy a sweet craving.

Happy New Year 2020!