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!
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:
Here are a few senior wellness ideas to enhance your physical health.
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:
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:
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:
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:
Unfortunately, about one in four older adults has poor nutrition. Malnutrition may leave you vulnerable to disease. To maintain a healthy diet, try:
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.
After a vigorous workout or a long day, let your body recharge. Getting adequate sleep may help:
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%.
Life events that may leave you vulnerable to poor emotional health include:
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 bring people who have shared experiences. You can join groups for grief, chronic illnesses, and other issues. Joining a group may help you:
Explore your senior living community's resources to find a local support group.
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:
Explore your senior living community's events and activities calendar to find meditation sessions. Otherwise, use a smartphone app to practice alone.
Journaling can help you explore your thoughts and emotions. Potential benefits include:
Try writing in your journal once a day.
Improving your neuroplasticity may lower your risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's.Neuroplasticity enables the brain to form new connections. Try:
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!