As we age, our bodies change and become more susceptible to illness.
There are many ways to maintain your physical and mental health as you age.
Here’s 7 important recommendations to maintain good health with age.
Stay Active with Physical Activity
Exercise is essential for optimal health, regardless of age.
Regular exercise improves heart and lung health and reduces chronic disease risks. Exercise helps you to stay mobile and coordinated so that your chances of falling are minimized.
Find activities that make you happy and get you moving, even if they are as simple as a daily stroll or some light gardening.
Feed Your Body Nutritious Food
A balanced and nutritional diet is also important for maintaining good health.
Consume a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as lean protein, whole grains, healthy fats, and whole grains. Limit processed foods, sugars and saturated fats.
Drinking plenty of water is important.
Preserve Your Mental Sharpness
It is important to engage in mental stimulation as we age to slow this process.
Cognitive activities such as reading, playing games and learning new skills, can boost brain function and reduce the risk of age related cognitive decline.
Engaging in social interaction with friends and family members has many mental health benefits.
Protect Your Skin
Skin protection is not just important for cosmetic purposes, but it can also help prevent skin cancer and other skin conditions.
Wear broad spectrum sunscreen, even on overcast days. Also, wear protective clothing such as a hat or sunglasses.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure and schedule regular skin examinations with a dermatologist in order to detect potential problems early.
Keep your skin moisturized, especially when you get older, as the natural oil production of your skin decreases. This makes it more susceptible to dryness.
Use a moisturizer regularly to maintain the hydration of your skin and avoid dry, itchy skin.
Stay Connected
Social relations are essential for both physical and emotional health.
A strong network of family members, friends and other community members can reduce loneliness, depression and anxiety. This can also improve your physical health, by keeping you mentally and physically active and reducing stress.
Make time to socialize, share hobbies and interests and keep in touch with family and friends.
Keep up with health screenings
Early detection and prevention chronic diseases requires regular health screenings.
Consult your healthcare provider for a customized screening schedule that takes into account your age, your medical history and your risk factors.
Early detection of problems is the best way to treat them.
Stay current with medications
Track all your medications, including supplements and over-the-counter drugs.
Follow the instructions of your doctor when taking medication.
By keeping accurate records, and informing your healthcare provider of any changes you make, you can avoid dangerous drug interactions. This will ensure that the care provided is appropriate.