Today, I am happy to bring you a guest article from Karen Weeks. Karen created Elder Wellness as a resource for seniors who wish to keep their minds, bodies, and spirits well.
Enjoy!
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Healthy living isn’t always easy to come by. For many seniors, it can be a challenge to change their eating habits, exercise safely, and maintain social activities, and these lifestyle changes can take time to get used to. However, as we get older, it’s imperative to make these changes in order to stay active and independent.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to stay healthy, and there are several resources available to help you get there. The most essential factor in taking care of yourself is staying open to new things and researching the options, especially if you are living with a disability or a major health issue that hinders your mobility or diet. The more educated you are on making the right lifestyle choices, the better.
Here are a few great tips on how to make healthy living a reality.
Know your needs
Many older adults find that their needs change dramatically over time, and sometimes a change in living situation is required. If you’re having trouble taking care of yourself, it might be time to research assisted living facilities. There are many different levels of care provided, so it’s essential to make sure you find one that meets all your needs. Assisted living allows for independence while offering daily care with tasks like bathing and preparing meals. Be sure to tour several different communities to get a feel for the atmosphere.
Research your Medicare options
Medicare can be an invaluable resource for seniors, but it’s important to read up on your policy and get familiar with the benefits. There are many different levels to Medicare and lots of plans to choose from, and it can be overwhelming to go through them all. With the Medicare annual enrollment in full swing, now is the perfect time to ask your spouse or a family member to read through the options with you, then help you figure out the best one for your needs.
Change the way you eat
The foods you eat can have a big impact on your well-being. That’s why it’s so important to add nutrient-dense foods, like carrots and blueberries, to your diet. These superfoods contain vitamins and minerals that help prevent health issues like osteoporosis and cancer. Start reading labels if you don’t already, and make sure you understand the ingredients that are in the foods you eat. Sugar is found in just about everything, which can make shopping difficult for those living with diabetes. However, if you know how to read labels, you can avoid many issues.
Work out indoors
Inclement weather can make it difficult for seniors to get out and exercise. However, there are indoor workouts you can do that are just as beneficial to your health: They can improve your balance and increase longevity, among other benefits. Workouts you can try indoors include swimming, walking, following along to exercise videos, and stretching. The key is to dress comfortably for the workouts, and talk to your doctor about any concerns or before making drastic changes to your routine. There are also fun activities you can do to get your heart rate up, such as gardening or playing golf.
Healthy living in your senior years doesn’t have to be a challenge. Use the easy tips above to help keep your mind sharp and your body fit. With some creativity, you can make lifestyle changes that will be simple to maintain.
About Fitness for Health:Fitness for Health creates unique exercise programs based on a person’s individual fitness goals. Want to create a senior wellness plan? Need to improve your bone and joint health? No problem! Fitness for Health will you help you and your loved ones reach your full potential. Contact us for more information.
Tags: fitness, healthy active lifestyles, fitness for seniors, senior health, stretching, healthy living, nutrtition, exercise, Tips, health, Stay Active