We all know that as we age we become more susceptible to accidents and illness. Falls, for example, are the leading fatal injury in people 65 and older and yet there are preventative measures seniors can do to minimize their risk of falling.
Taking care of one’s health as we age is important if we want to enjoy quality of life in our golden years. Here are the top senior wellness tips everyone needs to know about to stay active and healthy into retirement and beyond.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Many diseases that can develop as people age—such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes—are preventable by eating a healthy diet. At the very least, you’ll minimize your risk of dealing with many chronic health conditions by eating foods high in anti-oxidants and nutrients.
Exercise
Staying physically active is one of the best ways to help you maintain balance, coordination, flexibility, and strength that can prevent falls. Even something as low impact as walking can help you reap health benefits. Regular exercise, even a gentler variety, can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Physical activities that are great for seniors include swimming, dancing, cycling, Pilates, and yoga. Aim for fitness routines that help keep muscles strong and incorporate cardio to burn calories.
A home health care services professional can also recommend appropriate exercises for a senior based on their physical ability.
Work Your Brain
Staying mentally active is just as important as physical exercise. Making your brain work whether by doing crossword puzzles, reading, or creating art may delay the onset of memory loss.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is the most common fluid problem affecting the elderly, so aim to drink water throughout the day. You can flavor plain water with citrus slices and herbs to encourage you to drink more, and you can also get hydration from soup, tea, and water-based produce such as melon.
Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics and can dehydrate you quickly. Limit these types of drinks or drink additional water to counteract their effects.
Visit Your Doctors Regularly
In addition to self-care, seeing your primary care doctor for regular recommended health screenings and checkups can help keep you healthy. Your doctor may also recommend having your hearing tested as you get older. An eye exam is also essential as we age as cataracts and other eye conditions become common.
Dental care should remain a priority as you age as many older adults develop dry mouth that can lead to tooth decay. Your dentist will also screen you for oral cancer and check the condition of your gums for gingivitis or periodontitis.
Follow These Senior Wellness Tips
Following these senior wellness tips can make the difference between becoming someone who needs assistance with daily tasks versus remaining strong and energetic as they age.
Harcourt Health is dedicated to bringing you the latest news and tips to help keep you and loved ones healthy. Now that you know how to stay healthy as you age, visit our children’s health posts for tips on keeping your kids happy and well.