National Wellness Month: Supporting Healthy Aging in Tipton, IA

Written By: Discovery Senior Living
National Wellness Month: Supporting Healthy Aging in Tipton, IA

According to the American Psychological Association, the number of seniors aged 65 and older may double from 46 to almost 98 million by 2060. This would be the first time in history that older adults outnumber children under age 5.

Staying active, healthy, and productive can improve your quality of life as you age. This National Wellness Month, make changes with your overall health in mind. Read on for our tips on holistic aging in Tipton, IA today!

Healthy Aging Routines

According to the National Council on Aging, about 93% of older adults have at least one chronic condition. Chronic illnesses can affect your ability to perform daily tasks. This may lead to lost independence. 

Try improving your physical health to maintain your mobility and functionality.This can involve:

  • Exercising regularly
  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Getting enough rest
  • Relieving stress

Here are a few senior wellness ideas to enhance your physical health. 

Exercise

According to the CDC, many older adults in America don't meet physical activity recommendations. About 28% of seniors aged 50 and older are inactive. Inactivity is 30% higher among seniors with a chronic disease.

An active lifestyle for older adults involves a variety of exercises. The CDC recommends that seniors engage in these activities weekly:

  • Two muscle-strengthening exercises
  • 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise
  • Balance and flexibility exercises

Aerobic activities will boost your heart rate and breathing. Strength training can increase your muscle mass. Balance exercises can reduce your risk of slip-and-fall accidents.

The amount of exercise you should do can vary based on your health and age. Consult a doctor or work with a physical trainer to develop a personalized wellness plan. A trainer can also help you use proper form. 

Your senior living community's fitness program can give you access to engaging classes. These may include:

  • Biking
  • Cycling
  • Hiking
  • Walking
  • Running
  • Dancing
  • Water aerobics
  • Active yoga

Consider inviting your friends to join you if you're new to exercising regularly. They'll keep you motivated, which may encourage you to make it a habit. Regular exercise may help:

  • Lower blood pressure
  • Improve sleep quality
  • Help prevent chronic diseases
  • Improve your immunity
  • Prevent bone loss
  • Reduce anxiety and depression symptoms
  • Relieve osteoarthritis pain
  • Reduce risk of dementia
  • Lower risk of eight cancers
  • Reduce risk of weight gain
  • Reduce risk of Alzheimer's and dementia
  • You live independently longer

Eat Right

Eating a healthy, balanced diet can ensure your body receives essential nutrients.This can help you maintain a healthy weight and stay energized. It may help prevent some diseases, including:

  • Certain cancers
  • High blood pressure
  • Osteoporosis
  • Heart disease
  • Type 2 diabetes

Unfortunately, about one in four older adults has poor nutrition. Malnutrition may leave you vulnerable to disease. To maintain a healthy diet, try:

  • Eating nutrient-rich foods
  • Eating enough fiber
  • Adding supplements to your routine
  • Staying hydrated

Try eating more whole foods, including fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in nutrients and antioxidants. Antioxidants fight free radicals, which may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases.

Limit your intake of sweetened beverages and processed foods. These foods may trigger inflammation, which can increase your risk of illnesses.

Ask friends to join you for meals. Their company may encourage you to follow healthy habits.

You can enjoy a meal together through your senior living community's dining program. Work with professionals to develop a personalized meal plan based on your dietary needs.

Rest

After a vigorous workout or a long day, let your body recharge. Getting adequate sleep may help:

  • Improve memory and attention
  • Reduce stress
  • You maintain a healthy weight
  • Lower the risk of chronic conditions
  • Improve your mood
  • Improve heart health

Consult a doctor if you can't get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. They can determine the underlying cause. 

Consider adjusting your sleep environment. Try keeping the bedroom dark and at a cool temperature.

Maintain a healthy circadian rhythm by sticking to a set sleep schedule. Avoid naps. According to one study, napping for 30 minutes could increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease by 11%. 

Emotional Wellness Support IA

Life events that may leave you vulnerable to poor emotional health include:

  • Long-term illnesses
  • Poor nutrition/malnutrition
  • Dementia-causing conditions
  • Losing a loved one
  • Changes in your environment
  • Medication side effects
  • Lost independence or disability

Improving your emotional health can help you navigate challenges and manage stress. It could improve your mood and outlook on life.Here are some tips for improving your emotional health in Tipton.

Support Groups

Support groups bring people who have shared experiences. You can join groups for grief, chronic illnesses, and other issues. Joining a group may help you:

  • Talk about your concerns and feelings
  • Share personal stories
  • Gather helpful information
  • Discover coping mechanisms
  • Feel less lonely
  • Express emotions without fear of judgment
  • Gain a sense of control and empowerment
  • Stay motivated

Explore your senior living community's resources to find a local support group. 

Meditation

Meditation can improve your self-awareness and focus. Try imagining your breath as it travels into your nose, through your lungs, and out of your mouth. If a thought distracts you, redirect your attention to your breath.

Meditation may help:

  • Improve your sleep
  • Offer mental quality
  • Improve emotional resilience
  • Improve concentration and focus
  • Improve mindfulness
  • Calm your mind

Explore your senior living community's events and activities calendar to find meditation sessions. Otherwise, use a smartphone app to practice alone. 

Journal

Journaling can help you explore your thoughts and emotions. Potential benefits include:

  • Lower blood pressure
  • Preserve memories
  • Improve recall
  • Relieve stress
  • Improve emotional regulation

Try writing in your journal once a day.

Mental Health Tips

Improving your neuroplasticity may lower your risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's.Neuroplasticity enables the brain to form new connections. Try:

  • Playing card games or chess
  • Learning a new language
  • Playing an instrument
  • Playing sports
  • Practicing tai chi
  • Exploring new hobbies

Make a Change for National Wellness Month

Use National Wellness Month as an opportunity to improve your health. With these tips, you can make holistic changes to your life in Tipton. Remember, you can discover more resources through your senior living community. 

At Prairie Hills at Tipton, we strive to make every resident feel cared for and safe. We offer personalized care plans in a warm, welcoming environment.

Enjoy our exclusive lifestyle programs, including chef-prepared homestyle dining, an active social calendar, and wellness classes. Contact us now to schedule a tour!

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