Aging Healthy
By Mountain-Pacific
Healthy aging is a hot topic and rightly so—more Americans are living longer than ever. This is due, in part, to advancements in medicine—but that will only take you so far—you also need to commit to “living” healthier. Below are a few ideas to help get you on your way:
- Eat healthy: Eating nutritious and healthy foods will lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Read our healthy eating blog to learn more.
- Live an active life: Regular exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight, build/maintain muscle and may prevent cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Exercise ideas, tips, help with plans and coaching can be found on The National Institute on Aging’s website.
- Keep your brain active: Maintain your brain as you age by learning new things: how to play an instrument, learn a language or by reading. Keeping your brain active and growing by learning new things will help you age healthy.
- Avoid medication mistakes: Medications help people live longer lives and treat health problems. But mixing prescribed medications with over-the-counter medications can cause serious health issues. Consult your physician or pharmacist to make sure you don’t have adverse reactions due to mixing medications. Also every time you see a health care provider, get in the habit of talking a current list of everything you take—prescription and over-the-counter.
- Get screened: You have to go to know! Screenings are a way for doctors to recognize health problems. Ask your health care provider which screenings you need and how often you need them.
- Prevention works: Practice prevention by getting immunized. Prevent falling or tripping by wearing the right shoes, remove hazards from high traffic areas, place an anti-slip mat in your shower and light your house properly.
- Get your sleep: A lack of sleep can increase your risk for falls, depression, memory problems and irritability. Seven to nine hours of sleep a night are recommended.
- Reduce your stress: Studies show that stress may lower your immune system and your body’s ability to fight off germs. Stress can also complicate illnesses, lead to memory loss and fatigue. Find ways to deal with your stress; exercising is a healthy option to reduce your stress.
And remember, the key to healthy aging is living a healthy lifestyle. So make that commitment to start “living “healthier today so you can enjoy a healthier tomorrow!
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