By Jason Lewis from Strongwell.org
If you are a senior who wants to enhance the quality of your life, you should start by taking control of your health. Making efforts to boost your physical and mental health is the most effective way to feel more in control of your life. So take charge of your happiness and health, by starting with these healthy habits:
Get to the Gym
Regular workouts are the most basic solution for seniors looking to take control of their health and happiness. Physical activity is essential in helping prevent falls, warding off disease and controlling chronic health conditions. If you’re a senior on certain Medicare Advantage plans, you may even be able to enroll in the SilverSneakers Fitness Program to get discounted memberships to gyms across the country. The program provides seniors with access to more than 13,000 gyms, wellness centers and YMCA’s, and is a great option for adding physical activity to your regular routine.
Exercise Your Mind
You know you need exercise for your body, but have you thought about working out your mind? When combined with other healthy habits, adding brain-training exercises can keep your mind sharp and lead to a brain-healthy lifestyle. Simple steps, like memorizing your grocery list or learning to play an instrument, can give your mind the exercise it needs to stay efficient and working properly as you age. Specialized medical programs including the Memory Loss Reversal Program at True Health Center for Functional Medicine can also help seniors maintain cognitive function and help treat the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Reduce the Effects of Stress
This may not come as a surprise, but stress can cause harm to your health. Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes. But stress can also impact your mind by causing depression and anxiety. Getting your stress levels under control can majorly improve the quality, and even quantity, of your life. For seniors looking for stress relief, hobbies can be a welcome escape from everyday pressure. More than just a way to pass the time, certain hobbies can have brain-boosting benefits for seniors. Gardening, dancing, baking and taking care of a pet are all effective ways to deal with stress, while creating purpose in your life. Hobbies are a great way to fill empty hours while filling your life with more happiness.
Connect to Your Community
Another positive way for seniors to boost their overall health is by creating connections with other people in their community. Connecting with others in a meaningful way can improve mental health, while providing a remedy to the loneliness that many older adults feel. If you want to meet people and have a positive impact on your community, try looking for some volunteer opportunities. Volunteering has been shown to have several significant benefits for seniors. Through volunteer work, seniors can bond with younger generations, passing on the lessons they have learned in life. Seniors who volunteer also tend to be more active and have fewer issues with depression.
Improve the Quality of Your Sleep
Chronic pain and other issues can make it hard for seniors to get restful sleep at night. Quality sleep is critical in maintaining cognitive function and helping the brain heal itself on a nightly basis. Sleep can also boost your immune system and lead to better physical health. To make the most of your sleep, make sure you have a mattress that really supports you. A supportive mattress will help you feel more comfortable and relieve any chronic pain you may have. If you have taken steps at home to improve your sleep but still have issues, it may be time to talk to your health care provider. He/she can prescribe treatments and medications that may help you sleep better at night.
As a senior, taking an active role in your overall health is the best way to take more control over your life. By taking care of your mind and body, you are taking the steps you need to improve the quality of your life and live out your happiest years yet.
Photo Credit: Pixabay
