Getting older used to mean slowing down. Not anymore!
Today’s growing population of mature adults is increasingly staying active and living life to its fullest. In order for us to enjoy our later years, we have to keep our minds and body fit.
“A balanced diet and regular exercise are paramount for maintaining a healthy life for people of all ages. For seniors, diet and exercise can have a more prominent impact on general well-being.”
Many diseases that affect seniors may be prevented or at least slowed down as a result of a healthy lifestyle. Simple lifestyle changes can positively impact conditions like osteoporosis, arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, depression and possibly some cancers.
Here are some tips to help you prepare to age well:
- Use it or lose it. You’ve heard the old adage, use it or lose it. Challenge yourself mentally, physically, and socially to be at your best.
- Keep moving. Regular daily physical activity is one of the best things you can do for your body – at every age! Incorporate strength and endurance training, flexibility and balance exercises into your daily physical activity routine.
- Challenge your mind. Throughout our lives it’s vital that we grow new connections. Learn and relearn.
- Eat right. Eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains and fiber. A nutritious, low calorie diet is essential. Adequate hydration and controlling portion size is also important.
- Get screened. Regular physicals and screenings can identify any potential problems early and help lower your risk for certain illnesses.
- Stay connected. Maintaining a good network of friends can help you lead a happier life.
- Laughter is good medicine. Laughter stimulates the immune system, protects us from disease and makes your journey through life more fun.
- Stay young at heart. Surround yourself with your children and grandchildren. Children often bring wonder, joy, and a sense of optimism to our lives.
- Enjoy a hobby. Hobbies can help keep your mind alert – -not to mention boost your happiness.
- Enjoy yourself. Take part in activities that make you happy. Find pursuits such as viewing art, bowling, dancing, listening to music, enjoying walking in nature, and others to keep your mind and body stimulated. By doing so, you can renew your creativity and zest for living.
We all want to live an active and rewarding life. So, as you age it’s important to maintain good habits – or adopt them right away, because it’s never too late. Remaining healthy is largely within your control. Eat right, exercise, and get checkups and screenings as recommended by your doctors so you can the best out of the years of your life.
Editor’s note: Did you know that our local Senior Centers teach classes that will help you stay fit, offer many classes to learn a new hobby, and provide many fun social events? To find out more, visit your Senior Center page.
This Health & Wellness article is brought to you by Western Connecticut Health Network.
