On May 30th, the 25th annual “Senior Health & Fitness Day” will take place. The common goal of this special day is to encourage older Americans to remain healthy and fit. While this is one day officially set aside, at Evergreen Senior Living, we want our residents to experience this every day! At Evergreen, we believe that a fulfilling lifestyle includes physical, emotional and mental well-being.
Aging can bring a myriad of physical changes and challenges to our bodies and our minds. However, getting older doesn’t have to mean a sedentary, boring life. The healthier and more active you are, the better quality of life you will experience. Here are some ways to stay active, healthy and strong:
Stay physically active.
Even a short walk every day or a few times a week is a positive step in keeping your body healthy. Low-impact exercises like Pilates, yoga or water aerobics can improve bone density, muscle strength and help with breathing. Find an exercise that you enjoy and can commit to doing several times a week.
Enjoy a full social calendar!
Spending time with friends and family brings a wealth of positive health benefits. The sense of belonging, the camaraderie, laughter and time spent with others boosts our heart health and brain activity. A weekly game of cards, a regular coffee date, or an unexpected afternoon adventure with a friend or loved one will lift your spirits. Physically, this release of endorphins when we are happy and enjoying ourselves brings a very happy feeling.
Get plenty of rest.
Sleep can be one of the most powerful tools for promoting good health. Sleep is a restorative process that allows our minds and bodies to reset. Sleep habits can be altered as we age, meaning some older adults go to sleep earlier and wake up earlier, but the amount of sleep we get is vital for our bodies to function properly.
Eat well.
A balanced diet becomes even more important as we age. Age-related changes are inevitable, but the healthier our diet is the better our chances are of staving off a variety of illnesses. Foods high in fat and sugar contribute to a wealth of physical maladies, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. These diseases put a lot of stress and strain on the body. Filling your plate with fruits, vegetables and low-fat proteins will go a long way in giving your body the right tools it needs to remain healthy and strong.
Attend annual checkups and appointments.
Don’t neglect those annual appointments with your doctor and any specialist you regularly see. Prevention is key, especially as you age. In order to keep tabs on any changes in vision, hearing or general health, you should communicate any changes to your doctor even if you think they are benign. Be sure to take the medications you are prescribed and keep your doctor apprised of any adverse side effects. There may be other options for treatment.
Growing older is something everyone has to contend with at one time or another. Choosing to be active, healthy and strong is a choice everyone should make. Living an interesting life full of good food, close friends and healthy choices is what really keeps us strong and fit.
