It’s that time again, where we reflect on the year that’s coming to an end, and set goals for the new year ahead. And while resolutions of eating better, exercising more, and setting and sticking to budgets are common, we hope you’ll extend yours a bit further this year.

We’re calling these resolutions because of the time of year, but feel free to think of it more as a checklist for healthy aging. Here are 5 things to do more of in 2018:

• Leave the house daily. New research has found that boomers and seniors who leave their homes every day are likelier to live longer than those who don’t, regardless of their current health or functional capacity.
• Play video games. A new study has found that playing video games could decrease the risk of developing dementia. While more research needs to be done in this area, there is evidence to suggest that this type of cognitive stimuli is beneficial.
• Join a club or social community. This will help you get out of the house more often, connect you with like-minded people, and keep your social calendar full – all good things for healthy aging.
• Read more often. Reading stimulates the mind, improves memory, boosts concentration, reduces stress, and feeds the imagination. Now combine these benefits with those of social interaction (say when you start or join a book club), and you’ve got a recipe for improved overall wellbeing.
• Nurture friendships. Make meeting up with friends a priority this year. Phone calls, social networks and video chats are great too, but nothing beats face-to-face social interactions. Plan out your social calendar, catch up with friends and acquaintances you haven’t seen in a while, and soak up the good feelings – and healthy habits – that come from an active social life.

Loneliness is a growing epidemic for Baby Boomers and seniors, and the impact of it can be quite detrimental to one’s health and overall wellbeing. Doing these five things will help improve your social life, sense of community, and keep your mind and body healthy and alert. So, give them a try!

There are many widespread benefits to friendship and it is never too late to expand your social network. Amintro is a social app designed exclusively for those aged 50 plus looking to make new friends, and get the most out of life. Membership is free, and enables you to connect with like-minded individuals online and then head out to connect in person in your community. It is a safe, easy, and effective way to meet new people.

Learn more about Amintro, our community and how to become an Amintronian by following us on Twitter: @AmintroFriends, or liking us on Facebook: AmintroFriends.

By Christine Tompa