Good health helps seniors to stay active and participate in many activities they enjoy. However, aging can lead to the development of a number of health problems. Many of the same health-promoting measures that help the general population are also true for seniors. Here a few specific tips to help seniors enjoy better health and function.
The Importance of a Healthy Diet
Seniors may experience a decreased appetite, dental issues and ongoing health conditions that may require special nutritional needs. Dieticians suggest a diet that is lower in calories, but higher in protein for its benefits in managing diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Lean meats, poultry, fish and legumes are good sources of protein. Seniors should increase their consumption of fruits and vegetables, for the adding vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to their diets. Dairy lectins should be avoided to maintain good gastrointestinal health. Carbohydrates should be limited to whole grains products. Avoid trans fat and focus on healthier oils, such as olive oil, canola and peanut oil. Nuts and seeds are good choices for snacking.
Maintain Good Fluid Levels
Seniors are particularly prone to dehydration, so they should make a point of drinking water throughout the day. Caffeine-containing drinks, such as coffee, tea and soft drinks tend to deplete fluid. Juice and flavored waters are a good choice for maintaining good hydration.
Regular Exercise Helps Body and Mind
Daily exercise is critical for seniors to help keep muscles strong and joints functioning well. If you haven’t been active in your younger days, this is a good time to develop a suitable exercise routine that will help you maintain good physical function as you age. You can develop a gym routine to strengthen legs, arms and core. You can bicycle with friends. A gentle yoga class for seniors is a good way to maintain flexibility and balance. Even taking a long walk daily will help to keep your body in good condition. Regular exercise is also a good way to keep your brain functioning well as you age, improving blood circulation and the transfer of nutrients to brain cells.
Manage Your Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight can help seniors to avoid a number of health problems that often occur with aging. Obesity is linked to diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline and joint problems. Your doctor can help you to find a find that allows you to stay at a healthy weight, neither too heavy nor too thin.
Challenge Your Mind
Experts in aging agree that learning new skills and challenging your mind have a beneficial effect on seniors’ health and well being. So, learn to play an instrument, study a new language, work on a puzzle or research a favorite topic, to ensure good cognitive health as you age.
Stay Socially Engaged
Getting out and about with friends and family is an important way to maintain physical and mental health in the senior years. Staying engaged in conversation, being exposed to new ideas and being in stimulating company can help improve mental function and mood.
See You Doctor Regularly
Your primary care physician can help you maintain good health as the years pass, with testing, medical management of health problems, help with weight management and advise for healthy living. Your annual physical examination can help to catch many problems in the early stages, when they can be easily treated.
People are able to maintain better health as they live longer lives. Medical and nutritional research has offered a number of tips to ensure that older people are able to enjoy their additional years with greater satisfaction and engagement. Follow these tips, and you will be able to make the most of every year you are given.
