Self-improvement is the process of bettering yourself in a particular area or areas of your life. This process could involve making physical changes (changes in appearance and/or health), mental changes such as pursuit of higher education, career changes, or becoming healthier emotionally, spiritually, and/or financially.
Self-improvement doesn't have to stop after retirement or upon reaching senior citizen status. You can seek and pursue ways to be the best you, at any age and stage of life. Self-Improvement Month is observed during the month of September. This annual designation is a perfect time to reflect on areas in your life that need improvement and to set some goals to help you on the path to self improvement.
Self-Improvement for Seniors
The average life span has greatly increased from that of generations ago. As a whole, people are living a lot longer today than they did in years past. This makes self-improvement, which leads to a more satisfying life, relevant for seniors as well as the younger generation. The question is "what can seniors do to improve themselves and their quality of life?"
Ways Seniors Can Improve
One of the most important ways senior citizens can self-improve relates to their body. As we age it becomes more critical to take care of our bodies, as we are more prone to sickness, injury, and disease the older we get. Physical fitness for seniors can be as simple as taking a daily walk. This walk can be around the neighborhood, through the halls of the senior/assisted living facility, or around the mall, based on the individual's ability. Daily walking can help improve heart health as well as improving the functioning of the respiratory system. For seniors who would like to go beyond walking, there are yoga, tai chi, and aquatic exercise classes tailored especially for them. These classes can be taken at a local YMCA, gym, or senior center.
Healthy eating goes hand in hand with physical activity/fitness, in improving the body. Some people are reluctant to change eating habits, because they think they will have to eat food they do not like. Eating healthier doesn't have to be all or nothing though. Making just a few small changes can go a long way in improving health. Things such as substituting a fruit cup for fries when eating out or having grilled or baked chicken instead of fried, can make a big difference in their health.
Memory and cognitive functions can be improved by exercising the mind. Reading books and magazines, playing games such as chess and bridge, doing crossword or jigsaw puzzles, and learning new activities are all ways that seniors can improve their mental health.
Seniors can improve their spiritual and emotional health through meditation, volunteering in the community, and participating in social activities such as bingo, senior dances and dinners.
Life can be better at any age, so celebrate or help your senior celebrate Self-improvement Month by improving their mind, body, and/or spirit.
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