As we age, we become more susceptible to illness, disease, and various health conditions. Thankfully, senior citizens do not have to feel as though heart disease, arthritis, cognitive issues, and the like are inevitable. While vital at any age, keeping up healthy lifestyle habits is a must for those reaching the age of retirement.
Concentrate on Prevention
Rather than waiting on health issues to arise or worsen, it’s best to get ahead of them by being proactive. Getting moving can help boost your energy, protect your heart and lungs, and manage symptoms of illness or pain as well as your weight. If you’re completely new to exercising check out these new exercise videos for seniors and start working out right now. Regular exercise is also good for your mind, mood, and memory. Older individuals should schedule health screenings for cancer, heart disease, high cholesterol, and similar maladies. Getting regular vaccinations against such illnesses as pneumonia and the flu is also a good idea. Another aspect of preparing to have a healthy life is qualifying for Medicare coverage. That way, senior citizens have financial help to pay for much-needed health services.
Stay Physically and Mentally Active
Elderly individuals should be sure to remain physically active and mentally active. Simply walking regularly improves cardiovascular health, beats stress, promotes weight loss, and improves balance. Reading, writing a memoir, engaging in new hobbies, and solving puzzles are all good examples of ways to keep the brain engaged. One reason for declining mental health is a lack of mental stimulation.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Another benefit of regular exercise is maintaining a healthy weight. Keeping off excess pounds is especially important for senior citizens because they are at high risk for heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Those who find they have trouble fighting off health conditions such as heart disease may want to ask about cardiovascular health supplements. Proper medication and supplements also help seniors enjoy a healthy, long life.
Prevent Falls
A single fall can have dire consequences for senior citizens, ranging from broken bones to death. For this reason, seniors and their loved ones should take measures to prevent falls from happening in the first place. This means either removing or securing throw rugs and loose carpeting. Hallways and common areas in the home should be free of cords and clutter, and hallways should have motion-sensitive night-lights. Even wearing shoes with proper support goes a long way in keeping the elderly upright and unharmed.
Get Regular Check-Ups
In addition to preventative health screenings, older individuals should also get regular hearing, vision, and dental checkups. Human vision changes at age 50, and hearing loss is also common as we age. To keep their natural teeth for as long as possible, senior citizens should regularly floss and brush their teeth. Going to the dentist alerts them of gum disease and other dental issues that may not be obvious or preventable with brushing and flossing alone. If you need a good dentist, check out the professional dental clinic in roseville ca.
Get Informed About Medication Management
Elderly individuals who take medication should consider medication management. With it, patients who take multiple medications reduce their risk of experiencing negative medication interactions or prescription errors. Making note of all current prescriptions for every doctor’s visit is a good idea, as is asking about unexpected side effects. Doctors and pharmacists need to be on the same page regarding the medications patients take, as failing to do so could result in a patient taking the wrong medication or taking an improper dosage.
Facilitate Proper Sleep
True, it’s essential that senior citizens get plenty of sleep, but one of the best ways for them to do that is to facilitate proper sleep. Developing a sleep schedule, eliminating stimuli a few hours before bedtime, and even exercise all help a person fall asleep and stay asleep.
Adults can improve the overall quality of their golden years by paying close attention to how they take care of their health. A few additions (and eliminations) can make all the difference in the world.
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