Aging is inevitable and it can affect your body and mind in several ways. Many people find the aging process challenging, but there are plenty of ways to stay in good health as you get older. Here are some top healthy habits that seniors should follow:
Lead an active lifestyle
Exercise is important at any age. Regular exercise will keep you in good physical shape and lower your risk of age-related illnesses. When you exercise, you will feel more limber and energetic and experience a boost in mood and confidence. Physical activity can also be a great way to fight feelings of stress and anxiety.
You should aim to do roughly 30 minutes of exercise each day. You can get your daily exercise by going on a walk around your block, joining group workout classes, or doing aerobic exercise DVDs at home. Many fitness centers offer exercise classes that are tailored to seniors. You will have the opportunity to improve your fitness levels, increase your physical activity, and make new friends.
Quit smoking
Smoking has been linked to various health conditions including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and strokes. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, “people who smoke are 15 to 30 times more likely to die from lung cancer than people who don’t smoke.” Even just smoking the occasional cigarette can increase your risk of developing lung cancer. On top of the health risks, smoking can also cause premature aging and lead to issues such as discolored teeth, wrinkles, and sagging.
Smoking is a bad habit, but quitting can be extremely difficult. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of tools that can help you give up smoking. Some popular quit-smoking aids include nicotine patches, nicotine gum, and nicotine inhalers. Several apps and support lines have also been set up to help people overcome the challenges of quitting smoking. Giving up smoking is not easy, but it will improve your health, save you money, and lower your risk of chronic health conditions.
Take care of your mouth
Failing to take good care of your dental health is likely to lead to dental issues like cavities, decay, and tooth loss. This will age your smile and lower your self-esteem, especially if you have to replace your natural teeth with dentures. On top of damaging the appearance of your teeth, poor dental health can also put you at risk of gum disease and various health conditions. According to the American Dental Association, “oral bacteria may be linked to heart disease, blood clots, and strokes.”
Good oral care should involve brushing your teeth a minimum of twice a day using a quality toothbrush and toothpaste. You should also floss daily and use a mouthwash to remove bacteria between meals. Limit the amount of sugar in your diet as too much sugar can erode your enamel and cause tooth decay and cavities. It is also important to visit your dentist for a checkup every six months. Your dentist will examine your teeth and mouth and offer treatment if any issues arise. They can also give you advice on ways to improve your oral hygiene and dental health. Always book an appointment with your dental surgery straight away if you notice any oral issues such as tooth pain or blood when brushing.
Learn to ask for help
Learning to ask for help and accept support from others is a habit that all seniors should follow. It is normal for seniors to find certain tasks difficult. According to Frontier Management: “We slow down as we get older, and common household activities gradually become more strenuous.” Most seniors reach a point when they need support with their daily activities and lifestyle. Having assistance will help you maintain your independence and enjoy a good quality of life, despite any health conditions that you face.
If you have family and friends living nearby, then do not be afraid to ask them for help with things like grocery shopping or housework. If this is not an option or you have regular care needs, then you might want to consider moving to a senior assisted living facility. That way, you will receive dedicated support and assistance whenever you need it.
Visit your doctor regularly
Visiting your doctor regularly will help you identify health problems before they develop into something more serious. How often you should visit your doctor will be influenced by several factors including your lifestyle, age, and medical conditions. Speak to your doctor and ask them how often you should be going in for checkups or tests. Remember that you should always book an appointment with your doctor if you develop symptoms such as lumps, rashes, or a persistent cough. It is always best to get new symptoms checked out by a medical professional to rule out anything serious.
Drink eight glasses of water
Drinking enough water is fundamental to maintaining good health. Water plays a crucial role in several bodily functions including your digestion and energy levels. Failing to drink enough water can lead to dehydration, which is classed as a serious medical emergency. Even minor dehydration can cause symptoms including headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Not drinking enough can also increase the visible signs of aging and highlight common skin issues like dryness and wrinkles.
The amount that you need to drink each day will be influenced by factors such as your gender, your activity levels, and how much you sweat. However, medical experts recommend that adults should aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. If you often forget to drink this amount or do not feel thirsty, then set reminders to drink throughout the day. You can make water more appealing by adding natural flavor using fresh fruit slices or herbs. Speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms of dehydration or have any concerns about your water intake.
Final thoughts
Seniors must make their health a priority and take steps to protect themselves from common health risks like diabetes and heart disease. Following these routine habits will help you stay fit and healthy at any age.
