Healthy Living for Seniors – Six Essential Tips
Now that you’ve crossed your glorious sixties, you have a treasure trove of experiences, are oozing grace, and feel unstoppable. In this article we will learn about healthy living or health tips for seniors.
As amazing as that sounds, senior years of life also open doors to a few health challenges. Studies by the National Council of Aging report that 85% of seniors have at least one chronic illness, and 60% have at least two.
These are alarming numbers!
But don’t lose heart. If you’re ready to keep your heart pumping like a champ and keep health issues out of your system, here are a few tips for you:
1. Get Screenings to Detect Serious Issues Early
Screenings are a great way to detect and treat certain health conditions before they become serious. For senior citizens, screenings should focus on risk factors like falls, vision and hearing impairment, mental health issues like depression, and chronic illnesses.
Depending on your professional background, there may be certain screenings that you cannot afford to miss. For instance, if you worked as an industrial laborer or served in the military, you may be at risk for mesothelioma. It is a rare condition that affects your mesothelial cells – the protective layer that covers your lungs, heart, and abdominal cavity.
If you are diagnosed with it, you can take legal action. It is because conditions like these are often caused due to the negligence of employers. A mesothelioma settlement may help you pay your medical bills and other associated costs.
2. Prioritize Regular Exercise and Physical Activity
Physical activity is a crucial part of any health maintenance routine for seniors. Think for a minute, when was the last time you went for a jog or a walk? Don’t let those joints rust from disuse.
Exercise helps build endurance, maintain a healthy weight, keep bones strong, and regulate blood sugar levels. So, make it a point to move those limbs every day.
You’ll also notice an improvement in your sleeping pattern. Exercise reduces stress and enhances sleep quality, so you wake up fresh the following day.
And, of course, exercise is a mood booster. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, so you can look forward to feeling more energized and having a better outlook on life.
You can start slow with simple movements like stretches and yoga. You can also join a group activity, like swimming or dancing. You don’t have to spend money on expensive equipment — just get out and move!
Read More: How to Cope with Nursing Home Neglect – 8 Expert Tips
3. Eat a Nutritious and Well-Balanced Diet
Wave goodbye to deep-fried and processed food. Unhealthy eating habits can take a toll on your system as you age. You might experience fatigue, weight issues, and inflammation.
So, incorporate wholesome meals into your daily diet. Ensure you’re eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. This is the essential health tips for seniors. They are the richest source of essential vitamins and minerals crucial for optimal health and wellness. Some of the best options include:
- Apples for fiber
- Bananas for potassium
- Garlic and onions for antioxidants
- Tomatoes for lycopene
- Beans and legumes for proteins
- Carrots and sweet potatoes for beta-carotene
- Spinach and kale for minerals
You should also focus on lean proteins like eggs and chicken. These can help you stay energized and regulate your blood sugar levels.
Good nutrition also helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. For instance, eating leafy greens can help lower your cholesterol levels and chances of stroke.
Finally, ensure you stay hydrated by drinking enough fluids throughout the day.
4. Maintain an Active Mind with Brain-Boosting Activities
As you age, certain parts of your brain start shrinking. It is more common in areas linked to learning and complex mental activities like problem-solving.
Research indicates that dementia is a growing concern among individuals over 65. More specifically, 3% of people aged 65-74 have been diagnosed with this condition, while up to 17% of those between 75 and 84 are affected by it.
The numbers rise to a staggering 32% for those 85 and above.
But there are ways you can counter the ill effects of aging. Keeping your mind occupied with challenging activities can help stimulate your neurons and strengthen their connections.
Engage in activities like reading, playing chess, solving crossword puzzles, or even playing video games. Learning a new skill is also an excellent way to keep your mind sharp. You could try a new language, pick up a musical instrument, or even take on pottery classes.
5. Reduce Stress and Anxiety with Relaxation Techniques
As a senior, life has countless stressors, from retirement to health issues to financial concerns. These can lead to fatigue, insomnia, chronic pain, and a weakened immune system.
The best way to tackle stress is by stepping back and taking time for yourself. Cultivate a relaxing routine that will help you unwind and refocus your energy.
Practice mindfulness meditation, walk in nature, practice breathing exercises, or listen to good music. Every once in a while, you can also treat yourself to a massage or aromatherapy session.
You should also focus on your mental well-being. Spend quality time with your loved ones, reconnect with old hobbies or volunteer in the community. These interactions can help you maintain a positive outlook health tips for seniors and give your life greater purpose.
Read More: 7 Signs of Stress You Shouldn’t Ignore
6. Make Your Home a Safe and Comforting Place
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, an average American spends about 93% of their life indoors. As a senior, that indoor space is most probably your home. Therefore, it’s essential to make changes to it to make it more age-friendly for healthy living for seniors.
This can involve adding grab bars in the bathroom, installing non-skid mats, and securing loose rugs with adhesive tape.
You should also consider investing in tech like security systems and home automation. These can help you stay safe and monitor your health from the comfort of your home.
Apart from the physical changes, you should also focus on the psychological aspects. Keep your home neat and clutter-free to reduce anxiety. Finally, make sure to use bright, uplifting colors in the form of artwork and décor pieces.
Natural light is also a great mood booster and can help you feel more awake and energized.
Final Thoughts
Life is a precious gift. Make the most of it by caring for your health and wellness. Staying healthy is more than just making sure you take the right medication. It’s about making the right lifestyle choices and finding new ways to stay motivated.
These simple health tips of healthy living for seniors can help you lead your life as a senior with more energy and enthusiasm.
Remember, you are in control of your well-being. So, leave behind the woes of aging and experience the joys of life to your heart’s content. Good luck!
