There’s nothing we can do about the passage of time, but there are adjustments we can make to keep ourselves healthy and successful for many years to come. From physiological to emotional and even financial and sexual, all spheres of life need to change to prepare for what’s ahead. So with that said, here are 9 incredible tips for active aging in 2021:
1. Stay Physically Active
Staying physically active can help compensate for many of the effects of aging. Regular exercise can improve your coordination and help keep you active. It boosts your health by reducing psychological distress and leads to improved brain function. Exercising can also help manage certain chronic illnesses, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and osteoarthritis.
A short workout is better than none at all, and even a daily brisk walk can be more than enough–just make sure to get something active each day.
2. Stay Socially Active
Retirement is not synonymous with isolation. It should open up opportunities to explore people and places that you never got a chance to before. Obviously, since the coronavirus epidemic, this has been a tad bit difficult to do. But it is still important to remain in touch with your friends and take advantage of recreational areas or remote communication technology.
Even a simple phone can be great if you know just whom to call.
3. Eat Well to Live Well
Make whole foods rich in fiber and low in fat and calories the cornerstone of your diet. This helps to get the nutrients your body requires and lower your symptoms of recurrent diseases such as heart disease. While you lower your sodium and portion size, increase the number of fruits and vegetables.
The more colorful the plate, the better!
4. See Your Doctor Regularly
Daily check-ups with the surgeon, dentist, orthopedic surgeon, and healthcare professionals offer opportunities for early detection and treatment of conditions before they become more troublesome.
You may want to schedule a meeting with a geriatric specialist; that is, doctors who specialize in older people’s diagnosis and treatment. They will direct you to other physicians after an initial referral, arrange healthcare for health conditions, and help you develop a care plan customized to your needs.
5. Leave Bad Habits at The Door
This year, let’s agree to drop the bad habits. So for example, if you’re an active smoker, you should stop immediately. It will lower your cholesterol and the risk of getting cancer, diabetes, and respiratory problems. You will have healthier bones, limbs, and immune system along with other medical benefits once you quit smoking. In addition, try to limit your alcohol intake to one drink per day. Medical researchers have now found that the longevity risk associated with consuming alcohol is elevated for both males and females at levels above one drink a day.
6. Remove Yourself from Stressful Situations
Stress is real, and this past year it has been higher for everyone in the world. The best way to recognize and reduce stress in your life is first to identify the cause. Seek safe strategies for stress management. It is essential to know how you can effectively alleviate stress, whether exercise, journaling, or finding professional therapy. We here at Assisting Hands Home Care West Austin really love yoga.
7. Keep the Brain Active
Continuing to use your brain as you age is vital. Research indicates that tasks that keep the brain engaged will delay memory deterioration that leads to dementia. Reading, writing, or doing word searches may be part of these practices. Never quit studying. You’re never too old to learn a new trick.
8. Sleep In
You will note that your sleep pattern changes as you age to make you sleepier in the evening hours and ready to wake earlier than usual. This is not abnormal, nor does it pose a problem. As long as you’re willing to follow the prescribed seven to eight hours of sleep per night, changes in your sleep schedule are normal. Adults over 65 are advised to get between seven and eight hours of sleep per night.
9. Embrace Aging
Aging is something that nobody can stop or run from. Embrace the process and tap into your feelings and thoughts. Ensure that they are optimistic and accepting. Instead of focusing on the restrictions, concentrate on what you can do.
Have a Great 2021, and an Even Better 2022!
Don’t let these 9 healthy aging tips overwhelm you — feel free to take baby steps by adding to your daily routine just one or two of these tips and more as your mind, body, and spirit are ready. You can read more about active aging on our blog here, and if you ever need us, Assisting Hands is there for you: give us a call at 512-999-7379.
