Seniors are the fastest-growing population in America, and they’re healthier than ever. According to the CDC, seniors as a group are living active lives and contributing to the economy.
If you want to stay vibrant as you age, it’s up to you to form habits of healthy living. Here are some positive lifestyle choices essential for maintaining your spirit and sparkle in your later years.
1. Kick that smoking habit.
If the knowledge of all the medical problems smoking causes isn’t enough to get you to quit, consider your quality of life that diminishes the more you smoke. Smoking can lower your stamina, and also negatively affects your senses of taste and smell. That’s besides the heart disease, lung problems, cancer, and other diseases it can cause. Seniors with children and grandchildren have another reason to stop smoking: you don’t want to spread second-hand smoke to your loved ones.
Think it’s too late to stop smoking? Think again. Research shows your body starts healing itself within 24 hours of quitting. If you need help with kicking the habit, talk to your doctor or visit www.smokefree.gov.
2. Stay physically active.
The more you use your muscles and joints, the better they get at supporting you and bearing your weight. Aging causes our bones and muscles to start deteriorating, so it’s more important than ever to work out. The CDC says that reduced physical activity is one of the reasons for loss of strength and stamina as we age. Even just walking more can have a significant impact on your health.
Studies have shown how physical activity provides a range of health benefits for both the body and mind. Staying active can also help you maintain your independence for longer. Before you start a new exercise program, run it by your doctor for approval.
3. Stay mentally active.
The National Institute on Aging says cognitive health is an important component of brain health. They recommend seniors stay mentally and intellectually connected to life. Seniors who engage in volunteering, hobbies, or other stimulating activities report feeling happier and healthier. Other ways to stay mentally active are learning a new skill, reading a lot, playing games, or doing word and number puzzles.
4. Eat well.
In your seniors years it’s more important than ever to choose the right foods. Metabolism slows with age, so you don’t need as many calories as before. You also need more nutrients to help replace the ones you’re losing. Approach mealtimes with a balanced diet and focus on proper portion sizes. Choose fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains whenever possible. Nuts are a filling, nutritious, and delicious snack. Reduce your sugar and salt intake, and avoid processed foods. Try the Mediterranean diet for some time; it’s tasty, wholesome, and fun.
5. Get all your recommended screenings on time.
Taking care of your health is one of the most important parts of staying independent for longer. Get all your recommended health screenings on time, and stay up-to-date on your vaccinations. Make sure to see your doctor for regular checkups. As you age, you should check your blood pressure, vision, cholesterol levels, teeth and gums, hearing, and bone density at least yearly. You should also get annual blood workups. Ask your doctor for her screening recommendations.