New Year’s Resolutions: Leading a Happy and Healthy Retirement

You’ve heard the sayings, ‘new year, new you’. We believe that the new year presents an opportunity to do something great, whether that be small changes to improve your wellbeing, embarking on an adventure, or entering a new chapter. Here are a few new year’s resolutions to make 2020 the best year yet, and from all of us here at Highgrove, Happy New year! 

Commit to trying something new

When was the last time you picked up a new hobby? Hobbies are scientifically proven to improve your quality of life, both physically and mentally. Stretch yourself and discover new worlds by joining a book club, or build on your skills with a cooking class. Not only is it a great opportunity to learn, but you can meet wonderful and like-minded people. Who knows, maybe 2020 is the year to become a German conversationalist or chess champ? 

Drink Water

Drinking more water is the easiest way to improve your health. Our bodies are almost 60% water, and it needs to be constantly replenished, especially as we age. The typical recommendation is 8 glasses a day, or about two litres. Dehydration has been tied to a whole collection of maladies, from headaches to fatigue, and hits over 65s particularly hard. Try reaching for a glass of water before your morning cuppa this year. 

Create a Retirement Wishlist

What do you most want to get out of your retirement? Start this year with a retirement wish list of all the adventures, tasks and accomplishments you wish to achieve. Include a range of short term and long term goals, the sky’s the limit! Let your imagination run wild and set yourself some goals. 

Get a Health Check Up

When was your last checkup? Getting regular health checkups is important for everyone, but especially retirees. Take some time to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have, and get a physical to make sure you are in tip-top shape. 

Declutter

Did you get swept up in Kondo-ing last year? The new year is a great opportunity to reflect on your space and possessions. Marie Kondo took the internet by storm in 2019 by instructing the world to throw away anything that didn’t ‘spark joy’. You don’t need to embrace the minimalist lifestyle in all of its empty shelves, but decluttering is a great start. Keep the things that you love, and consider passing on the items you don’t think about, or don’t enjoy anymore. Read more on clearing the clutter here. 

Check Your Medications

Most households have at least one bottle of pamol that expired in 2008 or a bottle of medication you no longer take. Tackling the bathroom cupboard and checking your medications is not only a great way to clear space but keeps you and your family safe. Old medications can sit there for years without us noticing. Responsibly dispose of old or expired medications through DUMP (Dispose of Unwanted Medicine Properly, Auckland based) or similar programs. 

Share memories

As this year starts, it’s the perfect opportunity to look back. Consider booking in some time to talk to grandkids or loved ones about your favourite memories. Break out the photo albums, write down your stories, and share them with the ones who matter most. It’s easy to get wrapped up in a fresh start, so take a moment to appreciate all the wonderful moments that have led you here. 

Wherever 2020 takes you, we hope you stay healthy, happy, and hope to see you soon. Happy New Year!

If you have any questions or are interested in retirement living in 2020, we would love to hear from you! Get in touch