This article includes Tips and Resources To Improve Your Health as a Senior
When you optimize your health during your golden years, you can make the most of your life and improve its quality. You may ward off chronic health conditions or better manage any you suffer from, such as hypertension. Ideally, focus on your physical activity level, diet, and social life, and seek assistance when you can no longer safely or comfortably live alone.
Exercise Regularly
As a general recommendation, individuals age 65 and older need a minimum of 2.5 hours of aerobic exercise each week. However, if you physically can’t accomplish this, get as much physical activity as you can, even if it’s gardening or walking short distances each day. It’s important to keep moving as much as possible. Sitting can place pressure on your lower back, cause weight gain, and put you at a greater risk of cardiovascular disease and depression.
Fortunately, Phoenix, Arizona, is home to several gyms, including the Valley of the Sun YMCA and Anytime Fitness. Plus, you can get fresh air and walk on the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail or Crosscut Canal Path.
Eat Healthily
If you don’t already eat a healthy diet, start today. Sprouts Farmer’s Market and Natural Grocers are two stores in Phoenix where you can find nutritious foods.
Essentially, it’s best to consume a variety of fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables, including leafy greens. Choose low-fat proteins, such as fish and peas.
You need carbohydrates for energy, but choose whole-grain options as frequently as possible. Additionally, include low-fat dairy products fortified with vitamin D, such as cheese, milk, and yogurt. When cooking, use monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, such as extra virgin olive oil or canola oil, instead of trans fats, such as butter.
Consider Nursing Care
If you’re struggling to care for yourself, think about entering a skilled nursing facility where professional healthcare staff monitor your health conditions and intervene as necessary. The facility also has a dietary staff to provide meals, housekeeping staff to keep your accommodations tidy, and laundry service to ensure you have clean clothing and linens.
You can compare available options online, where detailed reports and pricing information are available. Note what each facility can offer you, look at reviews, and compare prices.
Focus on Your Mental Health
According to the World Health Organization, about 15% of individuals over the age of 60 suffer from a mental health condition. Therefore, it’s essential for you to take steps to prevent this from happening to you. That means getting out and socializing whenever you can. Check for senior centers in the area, or take up a new hobby.
Take Steps To Prevent Infections
Your immune system weakens as you age, making you more vulnerable to infections. If you have chronic ailments, infections can be even more dangerous, so it’s imperative to take steps to prevent infections. For example, wash your hands frequently, and never pick at open wounds.
Stay Healthy and Live a Better Life
When you’re proactive about living a healthy life as a senior, and you address your physical and mental well-being, you live your best life.
Discover how the iPain International Pain Foundation can help you better manage your pain by getting in touch with us today.
Author: Phillip Carr
Publisher: International Pain Foundation, iPain Blog
