AGING WELL

Last updated on January 28, 2024

Read Time:3 Minute, 4 Second

Even though we haven’t discovered the Fountain of Youth, most people still want to live a long and happy life. Once we begin noticeably aging, we are reminded that we have a finite amount of time left. You can worry about this, or you can use this reminder to live your best life. You can enjoy many more years when you take control of your life and health using these nine tips.

Visit Your Doctor and Dentist Regularly Things change as the body ages. You move slower. You may not remember things like you did in your twenties. It’s a great habit to visit your doctor each year for a checkup. Also, remember to see your dentist regularly to ensure you keep your smile for years to come.
Stay Hydrated We all need water; however, older adults run higher risks of dehydration and UTIs. Try to keep water with you at all times and drink it. Eating foods with high water content will help you stay hydrated as well.
Eat Nutrient-Dense, Whole Foods Give your body what it needs to be healthy. A diet full of high-fat products or pre-packed foods does not give your body what it needs to sustain good health. Change up your diet by eating foods that pack loads of nutrients in each bite. Also, increase the whole foods you eat.
Exercise Regularly Stronger bones and muscles decrease your chances of falling, a significant risk for older adults. Cardio exercises help your heart stay strong while lifting weights strengthens your bones and muscles. Also, the movement keeps oxygen running through your brain, keeping it sharp.
Stick to Good Sleeping Habits Your body also needs time to rest and repair itself. Ideally, you should get 6-8 hours of sleep each night. Pick a bedtime and stick to it to get ‘good’ sleep. Create a before-bed routine, including a bath, lowering the thermostat, and darkening the room to give yourself the best opportunity for deep, restful sleep.
Protect Your Skin It’s time to protect your skin—the largest organ you have. Even if you do not plan on being outside for long periods, keep the sunscreen on and wear clothes that breathe but keep the sun’s rays at bay. A hat helps keep the sun off your skin as well.
Stay Connected with Family and Friends Social interaction is another critical factor for keeping your mind sharp and warding off illness, including depression. Look for opportunities to connect with your kids, extended family, and friends. You will enjoy the laughs that will keep you young.
Keep a Positive Outlook There’s much negativity in the world. You don’t have to be part of it, though. Look for ways to find the good in people and circumstances. Try keeping a gratitude journal to note the things you are grateful for and review it often.
Keep On Learning There is no set time that we must stop learning. A commitment to learning is one of the best ways to keep your mind sharp and engaged. Learning new things will make sure you aren’t getting left behind in the past.

FAST-ACTION STEPS

If it has been more than a year since your last visit, schedule your physical and dental checkup today. Get the requested test and use it as a baseline for better health.
Buy a new, reusable water bottle that will keep liquids cold. Carry it with you and aim to drink 64 ounces each day to keep your body well hydrated.
Find a new subject, hobby, or skill that you would like to learn. Take the first step towards doing so.