As a person gets older, it is common for their health issues to become more complex.
They may begin to get aches and pains, as well as feel slower and more tired. Irrespective of these challenges, this is not a reason to give up on health or vitality. There are many ways that an older person can adopt healthy habits, which can help them maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life.
So, if you are an older person, or you are overseeing the care of one, here are five tips to follow to ensure your health remains in tip-top shape.
Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise is one of the top ways to stay healthy as you get older.
It helps with mobility, as well as balance and strength, which helps to reduce the risk of injuries and falls. It can also help to bolster cardiovascular health, and help with weight management. For those who live in a care setting, there are options like walking, swimming, yoga, and strength training. If you have a relative who is moving into a care home, and you want to see the physical health options that are offered, visit fairviewcourt.co.uk for guidance.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet that is high in nutrients is also crucial for healthy aging. As such, seniors should avoid eating foods that are high in salt and sugar, and focus on consuming vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. You will also want to eat foods that are rich in fiber, as this will help to promote digestive health.
If you take certain medications, such as anticoagulant warfarin, you should consult with a dietician about the best diet to eat to maintain your health.
Look After Your Mental Health
Mental health is exceedingly important, especially later in life.
You should aim to engage in mentally engaging activities, such as puzzles, reading, and learning a new skill. This could be something as simple as knitting, crocheting, or even caring for a garden. Also, take the time to engage with people socially, as maintaining relationships with family and friends is going to help you to feel good, and to stay socially engaged.
Get Regular Checkups
Even if you feel great, you should aim to stay in contact with your doctor, dentist, optometrist, and other healthcare professionals. This will help you to age with grace and can help to spot issues such as arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, and so on.
It will also ensure that all of your vaccinations are up to date, such as the flu shot and shingles vaccine, which is also ideal for keeping you in great condition.
Look At Your Lifestyle
Of course, there is more to lifestyle than what you eat and drink.
Many people who are older could benefit greatly from quitting smoking and drinking, as both can cause a wide range of health issues. Try to keep up with good sleep hygiene too, and also maintain your oral hygiene, even if you have removable dentures! All of these will help to prevent issues and will also keep you looking and feeling great.
