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Lifestyle Tips to Remain Healthy at an Older Age

Taking care of your body is essential to live a healthy life and this becomes more important as you age. If you are 65 years or above, then even minor illnesses like the common cold or flu could cause health complications. Hence, healthy aging is key to successfully combating illnesses and staying fit even in your twilight years. You can do this by strengthening your immune system so that the likelihood of falling sick is reduced and your recovery from illnesses is faster.

Tips for Seniors

1. Eating Healthy

Eating healthy is important at any age but as you become older and enter your 60s, your metabolism slows down and your digestive system may not be as strong as before.

Hence, one must ensure to follow a healthy diet packed with all essential nutrients and minerals in order to avoid any deficiencies. Also, make sure to include high-fibre foods in your diet to ensure good digestion. Apart from this, high fibre in diet also lowers the risk of heart diseases and stroke.

Staying hydrated is also important as it helps to avoid urinary tract infections and constipation.

2. Taking Necessary Supplements

As you age, your body may not be as effective in absorbing certain nutrients and hence you might feel the need to take supplements for the same. However, always consult a doctor before taking any health supplement. Some recommended supplements could be Vitamin B12, Calcium, Vitamin D, Iron, etc.

3. Staying Active

Staying physically active makes your body more capable of fighting infections and inflammation and boosts the immune system. Even light or moderate exercise, done regularly, is effective in keeping you fit. You can go for evening walks, cycling, swimming, etc. or engage in any workout of moderate intensity for about 30 minutes. Yoga is also a great way of strengthening your muscles.

4. Managing Stress

The production of the stress hormone cortisol is increased by the body if a person is suffering from chronic stress. This could disturb various functions including the immune system. It is important for senior citizens to reduce stress by increasing physical activity, getting enough sleep, practicing ways of relaxation, etc.

5. Getting Enough Sleep

Getting the right amount of sleep improves concentration and helps memory retention as a person ages. It also helps to reduce the stress levels and as a result improves the immunity

6. Avoiding Contact with People who are Unwell

Avoid contact with anyone who is unwell and face masks are a good way to protect yourself when you are outdoors.

7. Getting Vaccinated

Getting yourself vaccinated to prevent infections is one of the best ways to avoid diseases. You should get flu shots at the right time to prevent getting infected with the seasonal flu. People who are older should also pay a visit to the doctor for regular health screening, especially for heart ailments, cholesterol, etc

8. Checking Your Vision Regularly

With age, vision is also compromised in elderly; hence, getting eyes tested yearly is always advisable.One should also get themselves checked for ailments such as glaucoma, retinal detachment or dry eyes.

Conclusion

Senior citizens are more prone to illnesses due to their weaker immune systems. Going for regular health check-ups and taking prescribed medications and health supplements goes a long way in leading an active and content life.

Ensuring you sleep enough and managing stress are also necessary as you age in order to avoid serious conditions such as heart disease and hypertension.

It is important to make changes and adopt a healthy lifestyle to avoid complications. Following the above lifestyle tips for healthy aging can help you stay fit and independent.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

Sources: ParentGiving, NIH

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Published on August 01, 2022