How To Stay Healthy As You Get Older

how to stay healthy as you get older

As we age, it’s natural that we might not be able to do all of the things that we once did - we might experience more aches and pains and we may even forget things from time to time. However, if you start taking steps to take care of yourself you can stay much happier and healthier, for longer. 

Stay Active 

Staying active is perhaps one of the most important things that you can do. Regular cardiovascular exercise such as walking, dancing, cycling and swimming will ensure that your heart and lungs stay in good shape. This kind of exercise is also beneficial for your mental health because it promotes the release of serotonin, one of the hormones that regulate mood. 

It’s also a good idea to do strength-based exercise as you age, as this protects your bones and can help to keep you more mobile for longer. Strength-based exercise doesn’t mean that you have to lift heavy weights, things like yoga and Pilates provide the opportunity for strength building in a way that is less strenuous and more enjoyable. 

Watch What You Eat 

As we get older, our digestion actually slows down and we need fewer calories. This means that what we eat becomes even more important. 

A great diet to take inspiration from is the Mediterranean diet, which consists of lots of fruits and vegetables, lean protein such as beans and oily fish. The diet is particularly beneficial for older people because it is high in fibre, which helps to aid digestion, and also is high in the nutrients that you need to promote a healthy mind and body. 

Assisted Living 

If you are choosing an assisted living community, it’s important that maintaining a healthy lifestyle be part of your selection process. Healthy choices and lifestyle options are important when choosing a senior living or assisted living community. According to Brightview assisted living in Rockville MD, questions you should ask include, “Are there multiple menu options for each meal of the day?” and “Is there a calendar of events accessible to you?” 

Try to choose a community that provides a healthy and well-rounded menu, and that will help and encourage you to take part in physical activity as well as social activities. 

Stay Socially Active 

Remaining socially active is important for your well-being as you get older. Studies have shown that people who regularly socialize and get involved in their community have a greater sense of meaning and purpose, and as a result, are less likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. 

This in turn means that their physical health is likely to benefit. 

Attend Check-Ups Regularly

Your doctor will usually recommend a check-up every so often to ensure that there aren’t any health problems developing. It’s important that you attend these check-ups. Attending check-ups means that if there is a problem it is more likely to be caught early, which means that treatment will be easier and much more likely to be effective. It’s also important to take advantage of any preventative health care that you are offered, such as vaccinations. All of this helps your health, wellness, and longevity as you become a senior citizen.

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