September is the other January.  What’s your successful aging resolution?

According to happiness expert Gretchen Rubin, September is the new January. She writes, “September is the other January — a clean slate, a fresh start, a chance to use new pencils, fresh notebooks, and begin again.”

Maybe it’s the change of season. Or, maybe it’s because you’re getting back into a routine after a summer vacation. But, either way, there’s just something about September – it’s a great time to set new goals and get organized. And that’s true for your aging plan too.

This September, I encourage you to take advantage of this fresh start in the year, and take a moment to reflect on where you are in planning for your successful aging and what you need to do next.

To get you started, here are some successful aging resolutions:

1. Get your key legal documents in place or review what you already have

2. Research some housing options and consider whether you can age in place or need to make a move

3. Join your local Village

4. Explore some ways to make new friends

5. Meet with a financial planner or care manager for a consultation

Of course, making resolutions is challenging enough, and keeping them is even harder! But, Iona can help.

This September, Iona’s Take Charge/Age Well Academy is offering our popular workshop series Take Charge of Your Aging 101. The six-week series covers the questions and challenges you should consider while planning for your later years. You’ll get tools, strategies, and support on:

• Strengthening your social network
• Legal & financial planning
• Aging in place or making a move
• Creating and executing an action plan, and more!

Make September a time for reflection, new beginnings, and positive change! Learn more about Take Charge of Your Aging 101 and register here. 

What’s your September successful aging resolution? Let us know in the comments!

By Deb Rubenstein, MSW, LICSW

Deb Rubenstein, MSW, LICSW has been on staff at Iona for over 20 years. She has worked as a care manager, psychotherapist and support group facilitator, and has served as Director of Iona’s Consultation, Care Management and Counseling Services since 2005. In her current role, she oversees a staff of social workers and nurses who provide direct support to older adults and their families. Deb also leads workshops in a variety of settings, including workplaces, for the public, and professionals on a wide range of topics from “How to Help an Older Adult Who Doesn’t Want Your Help” to “Legal and Financial Planning for Retirees and Caregivers.”