As you grow older, the needs of your mind and body naturally change. Habits that were harmless when you were younger may now pose a danger to your health and well-being. Fortunately, you can start forging new, healthy habits for seniors today.
At Buckner Parkway Place, our team has compiled a list of ways how seniors can stay healthy to keep these folks active. Learn more about senior health and wellness from us today by calling 281.305.1846 or filling out our online form.
7 Healthy Habits for Seniors
1. Staying Physically Active
Regular physical activity is vital at any age. That can be especially true for seniors.
Specific benefits of such activity for older adults include:
- Maintenance of your bone, joint, and muscle health
- Improved control over the symptoms of arthritis
- Lowered risks for falls and related fractures
- A prolonged ability to live independently
You don’t need to engage in high-stress activity to receive these kinds of benefits. They’re also available through low-impact activity and exercise. Common healthy activities for seniors include walking, resistance band training, swimming, and low-impact aerobics.
2. Maintaining a Balanced Diet
Dietary choices have a significant impact on your health. Experts recommend that seniors eat a diet centered on whole fruits and vegetables, as well as lean meats. Things to limit in a health-supporting diet include alcohol and foods high in fat or sugar.
3. Focusing on Preventative Care
One of the best ways to stay healthy is to work proactively to prevent problems from occurring.
Steps you can take for preventative care include:
- Getting vaccinated against the flu and other contagious illnesses
- Scheduling a yearly physical
- Receiving regular cancer screenings
Also, you should get regular checks on your heart health and cholesterol levels.
4. Manage Your Medication Use
Seniors often take multiple kinds of medication. Unfortunately, the more medications you take, the higher the risks for harmful drug interactions. Ongoing management of your medication use is needed to prevent problems from happening. Your doctor bears much of the responsibility for this management. However, seniors must play a part, as well. It’s especially important to report any side effects that you may experience after taking one or more medications.
5. Getting Plenty of Rest
Large numbers of seniors experience occasional or recurring sleeping difficulties. Insomnia and frequent waking are both widespread issues. How can you improve the quality of your sleep? First, make sure you set aside plenty of time to rest. Most seniors need between seven and a half and nine hours of sleep each night. If you have specific sleep issues, ask your doctor for advice.
6. Protecting Your Mental Health
As you grow older, your risks for dementia increase. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet will help keep these risks under control. Other recommended activities include trying new hobbies and playing mentally stimulating games.
7. Stay Socially Active
Social isolation can have a notably negative impact on your health and well-being. You can avoid this possibility by maintaining connections with friends and loved ones. You can also stay active in your wider community. Possible options include volunteering or joining a local club.
Helping to Create Healthy Habits for Seniors at Buckner Parkway Place
At Buckner Parkway Place, we specialize in helping seniors maintain a healthy, independent lifestyle. Our luxury community features everything you need, from recreational programs to nutritional counseling. No matter your age, you’ll find options that help keep you vibrant and active. Call us today at 281.305.1846 or fill out our convenient online form to learn more about our many services. Our team is standing by to help you learn more about healthy habits for seniors, so contact us today.