Studies say that older Americans are reporting higher levels of vitality than other age groups. As a society, we're living longer, and for many people, those extra years are good ones.
But how can you make those golden years better? Are the people who feel great just lucky?
Genetics and luck play their roles, of course, but focusing on senior wellness as a goal can also be beneficial. There are many things seniors can do to keep themselves feeling happier and healthier well into old age.
Not sure where to start? Don't worry, we can help. Healthy aging is a process and this is a great place to start.
Read on to learn how to age well.
Seniors should engage in moderate-intensity exercises often if they want to stay healthy. If you're dedicated to healthy aging, don't stay sedentary! Exercise isn't just for weight lifters, sports stars, and people trying to lose weight.
Simple and low-impact activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling for at least 30 minutes a day can make a huge difference and result in improved senior health.
Choose something relatively enjoyable and sustainable so you can do it often.
Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This doesn't mean that you can't have the occasional unhealthy indulgence, but you should try to focus your diet on whole foods.
Luckily, senior health experts in assisted living communities help chefs create healthy, balanced meals that are also delicious. Eating well can be fun and easy!
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Older adults are at a greater risk of dehydration than younger adults, so it's important to make an effort.
Drinking more water can make you feel more energized and less peckish throughout the day, helping you lead a healthy and active senior lifestyle.
If you struggle to drink enough water, turn it into non-caffeinated herbal tea, add frozen fruit, or use water-flavoring powders and drops to make it more appealing. Do what you must to get your water in!
It's important to continue to engage in mentally stimulating activities like reading, puzzles, or learning a new skill. Your brain and your body are connected! When your mind is sharper, it's easier to keep your body in better health as well.
Many brain-training activities are also good for hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. They also tend to be fun and engaging!
One of the benefits of living in an assisted living community is the plethora of fun elderly wellness activities that you can participate in with other residents. Some are clearly fitness-oriented, like yoga classes, while others are more "get healthy while you have fun"-type activities.
These activities keep you active, stimulate your mind, and encourage socialization with other residents you may not know yet. They can strengthen your body while also strengthening community bonds.
Check the calendar to find fun senior activities coming up this week!
Seniors should get at least seven or eight hours of sleep per night to help their bodies repair and rejuvenate. Unfortunately, many seniors struggle to get enough restful sleep. If you're struggling with insomnia, take steps to fix it.
Try to be more active during the day so your body releases endorphins. Avoid caffeine (even trace amounts) in the afternoon. You should also avoid drinking alcohol too close to bedtime.
When in doubt, talk to your doctor about your sleep issues. Sleep keeps your body functioning.
Speaking of the doctor, make sure you're not skipping check-ups, even if nothing seems to be wrong.
Regular health check-ups can help identify health issues early on and prevent complications. A doctor can also offer health and fitness advice that's appropriate for your age and general health levels.
Stress can manifest in the body. Too much stress can lead to fatigue and mental health concerns. It can also lead to heightened blood pressure and potential heart problems.
Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Light exercises, like the ones we mentioned before, are also fantastic for stress. Exercise causes the body to release endorphins, and those endorphins will keep you stress-free and happy.
Seniors should always strive to stay as independent as possible for as long as possible. Stay active and independent by engaging in activities that bring you joy and purpose.
Continue with your normal routine, even if you're living in an assisted living community. Go for walks outside on the grounds, challenge yourself to new activities, and try not to stagnate.
This keeps your body more functional because it needs to live up to your daily demands. If you get too sedentary, your body will weaken over time.
Consider taking supplements like vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids to support overall health and well-being. Supplements aren't necessary for most people, but many seniors don't eat enough. A simple multivitamin or an assortment of vitamins recommended by your doctor could make a difference.
Vitamins generally won't make a huge difference if you don't have a deficiency, but they're worth a try in safe quantities.
It's important to pay attention to your health in your golden years if you want to age well. By engaging in senior wellness activities, getting some exercise, eating well, and getting enough sleep, you'll be setting yourself on the right track.
An active body is a healthy and happy body. Do your body favors by treating it well.
At Addington Place of Prairie Hills at Tipton, we give our residents the resources they need to live happy, healthy, active, and relatively independent lifestyles. We value health and fitness.
If you or a loved one is ready to move into a fantastic senior living community, contact us today. We can't wait to meet you.