Keep moving and learning in the elderly years
What an interesting trip aging can be! The previous years were filled with knowledge with a sprinkle of wisdom. The chance to enjoy yourself through it all. You have probably discovered that there are habits concerning physical health, cognitive strength, and emotional well-being. Are you on that journey right now? Here are ten habits you should investigate. Here are the top 10 healthy habits for seniors.
1. Exercise
Exercise is so important for seniors. You need to stay strong, maintain balance, and maintain flexibility. You don’t have to exercise for hours each day to stay fit. The exercise choices include walking, swimming, yoga, and light weightlifting. Just don’t overdo it. Thirty minutes a day is just about right. Exercise also makes you happier and healthier.
2. Eat right
You must stick with healthy foods to keep that energy level up and maintain stamina. You probably know the right foods, but they bear repeating: fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and grains. Folks our age need calcium, fiber, vitamin D, and B12. To help digestion, consider eating small amounts at mealtimes.
3. Drink Water
I occasionally get dehydrated. Water is essential to your health and body. I don’t particularly like to drink water, but I do it anyway. You should drink at least 6 or 8 cups daily. But start slowly and build your way up to that amount. There are also alternatives like tea or water with fruit to give it more flavor. Plus, to you, you get the benefits of eating fruit as well.
4. Get more rest
I can remember when my mother got much older, her sleep at night was at most 4 hours. She did not get a hard night’s sleep, but one where she rarely got much rest. I wondered why at the time. But now that I am much older, I have the same problems. Your health and emotional well-being can go downhill quickly if you don’t get enough rest. I also have sleep apnea, which can be a problem. You should set up an appointment with your doctor to see your options for getting more rest.
5. Keep Your Mind Active
Do you sit and stare at the TV between naps during the day? You need exercise, especially exercising the mind. Turn off the TV and read a book, do crossword puzzles, or anything to keep your mind sharp. This is important for older folks like us. Taking college courses online or joining a book club will also help your cognitive skills.
6. Maintain human contact
Loneliness at any age can harm one’s emotional well-being and overall health. It’s essential to stay in touch with family and friends. You don’t want to deal with depression in your later years. Senior community centers are a wonderful place to make new friends and have fun. Volunteering is another excellent way to interact with other folks.
7. Attend Regular Health Checkups
Regular checkups with your doctor are essential for keeping on top of your health and any problems that may come up. I have regular checkups for my glucose level, Parkinson’s, and heart condition. They will also help with any medication changes needed. Don’t forget to visit the dentist for cleaning as well.
8. Practice Stress Management
Are you stressed out about things happening in your later years? There always seems to be something to worry about, like money, health, or relationships. Yoga and meditation are great ways to help with stress. Check with your doctor before starting any activities.
9. Prevent falls
I’ve had my dealings with falls, and they aren’t pretty. Now, I am super careful going up and down stairs. I also use a cane when I’m out on unfamiliar surfaces. Although canes can be cumbersome to carry around, they are beneficial. Taking showers can also be a challenge. That’s why grab bars are so important. Proper shoes will also prevent falls.
10. Be happy
Being happy is an essential step in being healthy. Being sociable and busy with hobbies can make for an enjoyable life. Finding purpose in life will add meaning to your life and keep you going.
Final Thoughts
Making changes to improve your well-being, health, and emotional state may take a little time. Don’t make a lot of changes all at once; start slow. Just because you are in the older years doesn’t mean you can’t have a happy and fulfilling life.
Remember: it’s never too late to start making positive changes. Every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to a healthier, happier you.
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