12/06/2022
HEALTHY AGING
Several variables affect healthy aging. Genes, for example, are one of these that we cannot influence. Others are within our grasp, such as regular exercise, a nutritious diet, visiting the doctor frequently, and caring for our mental health.
Here are some steps you can take to manage your health, live as independently as you can, and keep your quality of life as you age.
Exercise and physical activity
Whether you love it or hate it, physical activity is a cornerstone of healthy aging. Muscle function frequently deteriorates with age. Elderly people risk losing their independence and not having the stamina to perform daily tasks. However, older folks who exercise can keep their muscular mass as they age, and this can make them live longer. Despite the fact that most research focuses on how physical activity affects weight and BMI, studies have shown that even if you aren't losing weight, exercise can still improve your health and lengthen your life.
Make smart food choices
Making wise eating decisions might help prevent some health issues as you age and may even aid with improving brain function. For instance, numerous studies have demonstrated that include even a little portion of these eating patterns, like consuming more fish or leafy greens on a daily basis, might enhance health results.
Having a restful night's sleep
You can maintain your health and alertness by getting adequate sleep. While older adults require the same seven to nine hours of sleep as other adults, they frequently fall short of this requirement. It may be difficult to fall asleep if you're unwell or in pain, and some medications may keep you awake. Having a good night's sleep is linked to lower incidence of insulin resistance, heart disease, and obesity. Make an effort to wake up and go to bed at the same times every day. Avoid taking naps in the afternoon; doing so could cause you to be awake at night. If it isn't too close to bedtime, exercise can also improve your sleep.
Stop smoking.
No of your age or how long you've smoked, research shows that stopping will improve your health, even if you're 60 or older and have been a smoker for decades. At any age, quitting smoking will:
• Reduce your risk of lung disease, cancer, heart attack, and stroke.
• Enhance your sense of taste and smell Improve your blood circulation
• Boost your capacity for exercise
It's never too late to give up smoking and enjoy the advantages of better health, increased energy, easier breathing, and cost savings.
keeping your mental health in check
Your whole health and quality of life depend on your mental health, also known as mental wellbeing. It has an impact on our decisions, actions, and interpersonal relationships. Healthy aging depends on managing social isolation, loneliness, stress, sadness, and mood through medical care and self-care. Maintaining relationships with others may elevate your mood and enhance your general wellbeing. Keep in touch with loved ones and friends by phone or in person. By enrolling in a class to learn something new or improve a skill you already have, you can meet new people.