Taking steps to stay healthy is essential at any stage of your life. But as we grow older, our bodies become more susceptible to diseases, demanding activities, and stress. With health complications such as asthma or diabetes, our bodies can be even more vulnerable to these triggers.
The good news is that we can reinforce our constitutions to withstand challenges more easily with some healthy lifestyle choices. Here are some tips that can bolster health:
#1 Active Lifestyle
Living an active lifestyle through age-appropriate activities is an excellent way to enhance our immune system, heart, circulation, and mental health. Just 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a day can significantly improve cardiovascular health.
Activities that match our physical strengths, such as walking, swimming, light aerobics, biking, and yoga, are good options. You can also try the following fun activities if you need help with motivation:
- Group exercise classes such as yoga, Tai chi, and Zumba are enjoyable, healthy, and social. They enhance balance and flexibility and mitigate your risk of falling while completing everyday tasks.
- Walking outdoors every day with your partner, family, or friends will help you get some fresh air and strengthen your body.
- Outdoor games for older adults like bocce, bowling, and croquet sharpen skills, enhance endurance, and are fun too.
- Indoor activities such as ladder ball, beer pong, or crokinole will boost your dexterity and put a smile on your face.
- Take up hobbies that involve physical activities like woodworking, gardening, or pedalling to feel healthier.
You might be wondering how you can easily access so many fun and entertaining physical activities. Well, when you move into an active living community for older adults, you can gain many opportunities to develop friendships and learn something new!
#2 Mentally Stimulating Activities
Researchers say that mentally stimulating activities are essential for older adults. Not only do they keep ailments like anxiety, depression, and stress at bay, but they reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Try some mentally stimulating games to sharpen your mind and have some fun:
- Solitaire
- Checkers
- Chess
- Ludo
- Snakes and ladders
You can also try some video games that are perfect for older adults who require moderate exercise and some socialization. Some classics include tennis, baseball, bowling, golf, and boxing on the Nintendo Wii. You can play Wii Sports alone or compete with friends and family. Experts say that some healthy competition is like a mental fitness exercise.
#3 Healthy Diet
Older adults should eat less fast food, sugary treats, and fatty foods. Instead, they should try more fruits, vegetables, and lean meats to enhance their immune systems and gain antioxidants. In addition, they should ensure that their meals are prepared correctly and are easier to chew and digest.
#4 Hygiene
The COVID-19 pandemic may be on its last legs, but its lessons shouldn’t be forgotten. Older adults must wash their hands regularly and isolate themselves when feeling ill. Such precautions are necessary because older adults can be more vulnerable to common diseases like the flu.
#5 Rest
Sleep is vital for a person of any age. While we sleep, our mind and body go into self-repair mode, boosting our immune system and cognitive function.
Of course, getting a good night’s sleep can be challenging for some older adults. Managing stress and improving your diet can help. A doctor may also offer some expert advice or medication to help you rest.
Different activities can subtly boost your health. Try the ones that interest you the most.