Healthy Aging Tips for the Most Golden of Years

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Living a healthy lifestyle is possible – and necessary – at any age. But when you enter your
senior years, the decisions you make each day have a greater impact on your overall wellness.
Living well doesn’t mean committing yourself to a grueling exercise regimen or spending
hundreds of dollars each week on organic fruits and vegetables. But it does mean you have to
make good choices and pay close attention to every aspect of your health.


Engage with exercise


Most of us don’t get excited at the idea of hopping on the treadmill for a walk to nowhere.
Thankfully, you don’t have to involve exercise equipment in your routine to reap the benefits of
physical activity. What you should do, however, is take your personal abilities into account. For
instance, if you have trouble walking or standing for long periods, swimming or yoga may be a
better option than taking a dance class. Fitness apps and exercise videos are great ways to
keep your body moving if you prefer to stay closer to home. Walking at the mall or spending an
afternoon at your local museum are also ways to clock steps and get your heart rate up.


Hello, healthcare

One of the most important things you can do for yourself is to find a doctor you trust, and who
accepts your Medicare plan. Your primary physician will be able to make recommendations on
ways to stay healthy based on your unique circumstances. They will also help you find
specialists and other care providers that are in-network. Medicare.gov explains that there are
two types of Medicare coverage. What you choose will dictate how much money you spend on
doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.


In the mood for food

According to Shield HealthCare, adults have unique nutritional requirements by their 70th
birthday. Seniors should prioritize non-fat dairy, low-fat protein, and plenty of produce. Eating
whole grains becomes more important as you age. Notably, these healthy grains fill you up with
fiber, which can help keep your cholesterol levels in check and regulate bowel function. One
challenge many seniors face is that food doesn’t quite taste the same as it used to. This is
because your ability to taste and smell starts declining as early as your 40s. By your late 60s, it
can be difficult to distinguish once-familiar tastes. You can compensate for this by trying new
foods or adding flavorful spices — but not extra salt — to foods you love. And if you smoke, quit.
The toxins in cigarette smoke can dampen your senses.

Add aging-in-place features to your home


Many seniors don’t get around as easily as they used to, which makes home accessibility
crucial for their safety. Adding extra lighting and non-stick flooring can prevent falls. Using
faucets and door knobs can be made easier by installing new lever-styled versions. It’s also a
good idea to add grab bars (can be purchased for under $20) in the bathroom and railings on
both sides of the stairs.


Kick the habit


We’ve already mentioned quitting smoking and the benefits it will have on your ability to taste
and enjoy your favorite foods. But, according to Harvard University, kicking this habit to the curb
is good for your brain, not to mention lowering your cancer risks. LiveScience explains that
cigarette smoke is attributed to brain atrophy and can damage the hippocampus, thalamus, and
prefrontal cortex, all of which are likely linked to memory.


Staying social


Social interaction is not just for the young but is also important for the young at heart.
Maintaining an active social life, which might include playing games with friends, visiting
grandchildren, or volunteering at your local school or animal shelter, may actually help you
stave off depression, Alzheimer’s disease, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular problems.
Also, most assisted living facilities put together social events to help prevent loneliness and
isolation, so keep that in mind if you need to address your living situation.

Even if you decide to slow down in your senior years, maintaining healthy habits is crucial in
having the ability to enjoy your retirement for years to come.


Image via Pixabay

By Karen Weeks

karen@elderwellness.net

References:

https://blog.soarlifeproducts.com/exercise-fitness/benefits-mall-walking/

https://www.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers/your-medicare-coverage-choices

http://www.shieldhealthcare.com/community/nutrition/2012/07/10/nutrition-over-70-a-guide-to-senior-dietary-needs/

https://www.health.com/food/18-health-benefits-of-whole-grains?slide=75354#75354

https://www.goldsgym.com/blog/healthy-seasonings/

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Moen-Home-Care-Brushed-Nickel-Wall-Mount-Grab-Bar/3010343

 https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/aging-at-home-problems-solutions/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/6-simple-steps-to-keep-your-mind-sharp-at-any-age

https://www.livescience.com/16144-quitting-smoking-improves-memory.html

https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_social_connections_keep_seniors_healthy

https://pixabay.com/photos/grandfather-granddaughter-child-2043611/