The year is almost over, and for many, that means making lists of what you can do to make the new one better. If you have a parent or grandparent that is a resident in an assisted living facility, your New Year’s resolutions can also help to benefit them.  Below are a few you can make that will ensure the senior in your life also gets to enjoy a much better year.

3 Resolutions That Will Benefit Your Senior in Assisted Living

1. Help Them Eat Healthier

Although healthy eating is a bit different for seniors than other age groups, it is still just as important — especially if they have a chronic disease. For example, your loved one’s metabolism is slower than it once was, so they need fewer calories than before. You’ll also need to ensure they are getting foods that offer the best nutritional value. If your parent is resistant to the change, try to slowly implement more fruits and vegetables and grains into their diet.

2. Provide Mental Activities to Keep Them Sharp

Getting daily exercise is very important for maintaining physical mobility and good health, but seniors also need to partake in daily mental activities to reduce their risk of dementia or other memory problems. Try to ensure your parent’s assisted living facility provides daily games that try to keep the residents mentally active. Also, bring them puzzle books and encourage them to use them instead of watching TV for hours.

3. Encourage Being Social & Visit Regularly

Many seniors have a problem with growing isolation and loneliness. This can have negative repercussions on both their physical and mental well-being. The good news is that most assisted living facilities encourage resident interaction and regularly find group activities for them to do. However, it is also important that you and other family members make it a priority to call and visit so they don’t feel forgotten.

If the senior in your life needs some extra help in their daily life, it might be time to consider assisted living. At GrandeVille Senior Living Community in Rochester, NY, they have served the needs of elders and their families for over four decades. The senior living community ensures your parent is well taken care of by a professional staff and still gives them plenty of room to live independently. For more information about short- or long-term elder care options, call them today at (585) 621-6160 or visit their website.