9 Healthy Living Tips For Seniors
Part 2
5. Keep Stress in Check
While it is OK to be stressed, you don’t want to cultivate it either. Chronic stress is known to trigger increased production of cortisol, weakening your immune system. People handle stress differently; some take on strenuous exercises, listen to music, and others explore nature. Identify and do whatever makes you feel more relaxed and happier. Sleeping it off or setting reasonable goals might be all you need to manage stress.
6. Get At Least 7 Hours of Sleep
Overworking your body and brain only weakens your body. While it’s OK to work hard, it wouldn’t be advisable to go for days without getting enough and good quality sleep. It is only while we sleep that the body can start self-repairing and rejuvenate. Health experts advise us to get at least 7 hours of good quality sleep every day. Getting enough sleep also helps boost your immunity system, as well as fight stress and depression. Lack of and inability to sleep might be a sign of an underlying condition, a reason you should book an appointment with your doctor. Too much caffeine intake might also be a trigger.
7. Get Your Annual Vaccinations
Vaccinations help improve your immunity against various conditions. These are particularly crucial for individuals over 65 years. It would thus be advisable to get your annual high-dose or adjuvant flu vaccine if of this age. The vaccine takes about 14 days to be effective and can reduce your risk of flu by up to 60%. The flu season typically starts in October all through to May, a reason you want to get your jab early. Getting vaccinated yearly will help boost your immunity against certain conditions, including meningitis and pneumonia (pneumococcal vaccine).
8. Get A Yearly Checkup
Consider scheduling yearly checkups with your doctor. It is through these checkups that the doctor can diagnose and manage various conditions. Most health conditions today, such as hypertension and diabetes, can go undetected for years, making it harder to treat once diagnosed. Having your vitals checked regularly can, however, help prevent this from happening. The doctor will also recommend the best ways and foods to help keep you healthy.
9. Avoid Contact with Infected Persons
Coming to close contact with infected persons should be the last thing on your mind, especially if you are over 65 years. Avoid crowded areas, especially during the flu season too. Limiting contact to only your family members and healthy relatives/friends will help safeguard you from catching an infection. If you have to, consider wearing gloves and a face mask and frequently wash your hands with soap and running water. Have a hand sanitizer with you all the time when in crowded areas.
Common cold and flu (and other viral infections) can be quite dangerous to seniors. One of the best ways to safeguard yourself from these is by first living a healthy lifestyle, having healthy meals, staying active, and, most importantly, protecting yourself. Avoid lifestyles and habits that would predispose you to some of these conditions, but rather work on strengthening your immune system.
Call us or contact us today with any questions you might have! Missed the first issue of this article? Click here! Visit our blog for more exciting articles about senior care in Houston.
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