Today, seniors (ages 65+) account for 16% of our population, as opposed to 4.1% in 1900—which means people are living longer than ever before. So how can we ensure our golden years are lived happily AND healthily? We focus on health. However, taking control of your health can be a bit overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin. So let’s start from the beginning. Here, we discuss some simple and effective ways to stay healthy, no matter your age.
The Basics
We all know diet and exercise can help strengthen our minds and bodies, but what specific things should you incorporate into your lifestyle? Research indicates older adults should primarily focus on heart-healthy workouts, like walking or water aerobics, as well as strength and endurance activities (e.g. resistance training). Combined, these will help improve your cardiovascular system along with your body’s muscle and skeletal structure. Another fundamental and easy way to ensure good health is to eat a balanced, healthy diet and make sure you’re getting your vitamins. Investing in the right multivitamin won’t hurt, but most healthy foods contain the right amount of your daily vitamin needs. For example, vitamin D can be found in foods like fatty fish, cheese, and egg yolks. Studies have shown vitamin D is linked to better muscle health and function, which can help seniors maintain their independence as they get older. Bottom line: Incorporating healthy habits—like physical activity, vitamins, and a nutritious diet—can improve your quality of life and ensure your immune system stays in good shape!
Healthy Tips You May Not Think About…
Here are some other ways to support your overall health:
1. Regular dental, hearing, and vision check-ups are essential to excellent health, but they sometimes go uncared for as we age. Your teeth and gums can be looked after by brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups. Hearing loss is very common in older adults, but talking with your doctor about ways to improve your hearing is a great way to stay on top of your hearing health. And don’t forget to schedule appointments with your optometrist; they will help you avoid or treat conditions, such as cataracts or glaucoma, that can affect your vision.
2. Reducing your stress can boost your immune system and help maintain your heath, both physical and mental. Research shows activities like meditation or yoga can improve your sleep quality, blood pressure, and heart health. The best part? These practices can be done in the comfort of your home!
3. Smoking can be a detriment to one’s health. Smoking can negatively affect your cardiovascular health and increase the risk of serious illnesses and infections. According to Harvard Medical School, even just one cigarette a day can severely impact your heart, lungs, esophagus, stomach, and other vital organs; it’s also commonly linked to various cancers. If you’re invested in your health, then you should seriously consider quitting.
Easy Ways to Protect Your Health
With the current public health crisis, you may be wondering: “How do I stay safe? Is improving my lifestyle enough?” These precautionary measures will help you stay safe and healthy all year long.
Here are some safety measures recommended by the CDC:
- Frequently wash hands and cover all coughs and sneezes.
- Use a secure cloth face covering when in public.
- Avoid close contact with others and maintain a social distance.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces or items.
- Monitor your health daily, and notify your primary healthcare provider if anything regarding your health changes.
If you’re immunocompromised, it’s best to avoid public spaces or to limit your exposure by avoiding busy times in stores. If it’s unavoidable, use the above precautions when going out to prevent yourself and those around you from contracting and spreading this disease.
Have More Questions Regarding Your Health?
Feeling confident and informed about your health for 2020? Enjoy incorporating these new, exciting lifestyle changes into your daily routine and watch your health flourish. At Cardiovascular Group, we are committed to our patients and want you to be well-informed about your health. If you’re interested in learning more about your health, read our blog, and be sure to make an appointment if you have any concerns about your current health level.
