- Could the aging in place movement make an important difference in the senior health crisis that is growing across the country?
Seniors are more concerned about their health than ever before. There is a good reason for this. Many health problems associated with aging are becoming more prevalent than ever. The National Institute of Health released a report a while back showing that rates of osteoporosis are rising. Many other health risks are increasing as well.
The good news is that health problems are far less common with seniors who take good care of themselves. You need to know what steps to take to keep yourself healthy.
How to Stay Healthy as a Senior
Developing healthy habits as a young person is a great way to keep them going as a senior. But it is never too late for seniors to begin focusing on their health. Good health habits can mean the difference between enjoying each day and being less prone to illness than feeling run down most of the time. With regular health check-ups and staying physically active, you can keep your quality of life while enjoying your home. As seniors continue to age and mobility starts to decrease, the feeling of independence begins to vanish. While you cannot stop the aging clock, by incorporating healthy habits their daily routines, seniors can extend aging and in place in the comfort of their own home.
Eat Healthily
The biggest change you can make to your life is keeping your diet healthy. As the human body ages, the digestive system slows down. High-fiber fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are more important for seniors for this reason. Seniors should also watch their water intake and make sure they are consuming enough each day.
Preventative Measures
Much of a senior’s health care needs are preventative in nature. Health screenings for cholesterol levels, colon cancer, heart problems, and more become very important as you age. Seniors also need special care and vaccinations against influenza and pneumonia during certain seasons.
Check Vision
Seniors who already wear glasses should have their prescription checked every year to check for changes. The right pair of glasses can help reduce further visual decline, so this becomes massively important for maintaining good health.
Stay Physically Active
The human body comes with a built-in use it or lose it type arrangement. The more active you are in your older age, the more likely you are to be mobile 10 years from now. Long walks and short strolls can keep seniors healthy through activity. For some tips on how to stay active this spring, be sure to consult an exercise program designed for seniors. Your physician can give you advice on creating an exercise regimen that works for your daily routine.
Dental Visits
As we age, our chance for cavities increases. Dental visits for seniors should be arranged at least once every six months. Mouth infections can be a sign of serious health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or stroke. A dentist can be the first point in identifying these issues through regular dental check-ups.
Don’t Forget Mental Health
Most seniors neglect their mental health as they advance in age. Doing crossword puzzles, reading, and writing are some of the ways seniors can practice good mental health. Video games can also help keep hand-eye coordination well developed. Socialization is also important for seniors, so make sure your family and grandchildren are around regularly.
Regular Sleep
It’s also important for seniors to maintain a regular sleep schedule. Frequent waking and insomnia at night is a common problem as we age. Turning down the lights in the evening will help spur melatonin production to help seniors stay asleep through the whole night.
Protect Your Health as an Aging Senior
Protecting your health needs to be a top priority as you get older. Make sure that you follow these tips to keep yourself healthy.