We all strive to be as healthy as possible for as long as possible. Although aging inevitably affects us physically, it doesn’t have to mean a decrease in our health and well-being. In order to age healthily, we need to be aware of the changes that occur as we grow older and adjust our daily routines accordingly.
Heather Battey, Executive Director at amavida, a senior living community located in Fort Myers, Florida, says, “It’s possible to experience great health throughout the senior years. Understanding how your mind and body change with age is the first step to staying healthy. For example, recognizing that your metabolism slows down with age can help you make smart choices for your diet. Awareness is key to staying healthy.”
Healthy Tips for Aging Adults
As we age, it can be easy to submit to the physical changes we face (sore joints, fatigue, poor appetite, etc.) that make us feel less than our best. Unfortunately, neglecting to address these changes can lead to greater health issues down the road. Healthy aging comes in the form of making good choices every day to promote our best health. Here are just a few ways you can put your health first:
- Manage Nutrition – Eating well does so much more than just help avoid weight gain. As we age, our bodies begin to absorb nutrients from food differently. Filling your diet with nutritious foods such as lean protein, leafy greens, fresh fruit, whole grains and healthy oils is a good way to ensure you’re getting the most benefits from what you munch on. If you’re concerned about nutrient or vitamin deficiency, talk to your doctor.
- Well-Rounded Exercise – Staying physical active is often the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about health. While moving your body and exercising is definitely the greatest way to keep your muscles (including the heart!) strong, seniors should be sure to focus on several areas of physical activity. In addition to the respiratory and strength benefits from cardio exercises, like walking, swimming, etc., you should also add balance training and flexibility exercises to your workout regime. Aging adults need to keep muscles and joints loose and limber to maintain a full range of motion and avoid injuries that result from poor balance. Exercises such as stretching, yoga and tai chi are good cool-downs for cardio workouts, and they help you stay flexible.
- Practice Safety – Unfortunately, many cases of poor health in older adults result from accidents. (Consider that the CDC rates falls as the leading cause of death for older Americans.) Making safety a priority can prevent an accident from taking away your independence and good health. You can stay safe by making sure your home is equipped with handrails on the stairs and arranging furniture so it’s easy to move around. Additionally, if you’re not in perfect health, it’s important to recognize your limits and practice good judgement when it comes to physical activity.
- Stay Social – Maintaining an active social life is said to be just as important to healthy aging as physical wellness – and even plays a large role in physical and cognitive health! Spending quality time with others helps us guard against mental decline and the detriments of isolation. Not only do friendships and healthy relationships improve our quality of life, they also help to keep the brain sharp and give us a reason to be healthy.
- Plan Ahead – No one knows what the future holds, but we can plan ahead to make it as good as possible. Keeping your future financially secure and preparing for a time when you might require care affects your health by giving you peace of mind. Having a plan in place for the future can save you from stress and poor emotional health not only now, but in the years to come.
A Lifestyle for Health and Vibrancy
At amavida, we understand older adults and what they need to live healthy, vibrant lives. Our community is brimming with options and opportunities to achieve health goals and fulfill aspirations, whatever yours may be.
We’ve designed a community that offers multiple venues for delicious, nutritious dining and fun, exciting ways to stay strong with a fitness center, pool and more! Our senior living lifestyle is perfect for making lasting friendships with like-minded people for optimal social and emotional health. And, with our continuum of care services, Assisted Living and Memory Care are available right on campus if health needs ever change, ensuring you peace of mind for the future.
Call us today to learn more about amavida and living a healthy senior lifestyle!