As we age, our bodies go through many changes. But there are steps you can take to help maintain your health. So, what are these changes, and how to stay healthy as we age? Read the below tips, incorporate them into your daily routine, and stay healthy. Remember, aging never takes a day off and neither should you.
1. Brain Health
Mental fitness doesn’t have to be separate from your entertainment. In fact, playing a musical instrument, doing crossword puzzles, reading or participating in board games are just a few simple ways to keep your brain sharp. Keep memory loss at bay and keep dementia at bay with at least seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep every night.
2. Whole Grains
Eliminating simple carbs and replacing them with complex carbs like whole grains is one of the easiest dietary changes you can make for healthy aging. Yes, if you are used to white carbs it’s going to be a change, but you’ll help prevent heart disease, cholesterol, stroke and diabetes.
3. Exercise
There’s no excuse to not exercise, particularly if you are of an advanced age. It keeps you alert, maintains energy and even keeps you happier. There are plenty of low-impact calisthenics and yoga routines available these days to get you started easily.
4. Non-Physical Health
Remember your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Keep in tune with it and be sure to communicate any changes you encounter with those who can help.
5. Heart Health
The condition of your heart determines so much that it’s essential you eat right, exercise consistently — including of course plenty of cardio — and manage your stress to keep it at its best.
6. Socialization
Humans are social beings. Without socializing your likelihood to develop mental and physical ailments increases, including depression and anxiety. Being Social also helps seniors stay active because friends are great motivators. Make regular plans with your friends.
7. Fruits & Vegetables
There is so much advice out there about what to eat, but the easiest tip to follow is to eat fruit and vegetables of a variety of colors. Do this and you’ll help keep chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease at bay.
8. Cancer
Early prevention is your best bet for beating cancer, so make sure to talk to your doctor regularly about your risks for common types, many of which have survival rates above 90% if you detect it early enough.
9. Cholesterol
Cholesterol levels often increase with age. It is also a risk factor for heart disease. Make sure to get your cholesterol checked every year so you can meet your personal health goals properly.
Conclusion
The key to staying healthy as you age is dedicating yourself to a myriad of preventative measures. If you properly prepare your body and mind for aging, you will successfully blunt its effects. Socialize, eat a well-rounded diet including whole grains, fruits and vegetables, watch your cholesterol, manage your stress, and exercise regularly. Keep your brain active, communicate any changes in your mental and emotional health, and get screened regularly for the types of cancer for which you have the highest risk. With these preventative measures, you will stay healthy as you age.