5 Simple Ways Seniors Can Boost Their Health

Aging is inevitable, but that doesn’t have to slow you down. With proper care and a healthy lifestyle, seniors can make the most of every stage of their life. Next month is Healthy Aging Month and a wonderful time to reflect on what is going well, and where there are opportunities for improvement.

There are many ways you can boost your physical, mental, emotional, and social health as you age:

1. Stay Active
   Keep your muscles and joints strong and flexible by continuing to exercise and move your body. Sign up for classes at a local gym, work with a personal trainer, or workout with a friend. This can help you to stay accountable and engaged because you are not exercising alone. It can also expose you to a wider variety of exercises and activities – and teach you how to safely execute different movements. If you’re not ready to go back in person yet, sign up for virtual classes, or follow along with videos online.

   Planning fun outings is also a great way to stay active. Go for a hike, powerwalk around the outlets or mall, or take a walking tour of a historical site. Join up with friends and go to the zoo or a botanical garden. There will be plenty to look at and do as you get in your steps.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet
   Plant a garden so you can grow your own fresh produce and herbs. It is exciting to watch everything bloom and then eat what you have grown. Be daring and plant a few vegetables you haven’t tried before, and use fresh herbs to enhance flavor. Go online and explore new recipes to use what you have grown or can find at the farmers market. Many communities offer cooking classes as well if you want to improve your skills.

   It can also be fun to involve friends. Get everyone together to share your favorite recipes. Once you have cooked, everyone can split the leftovers so you are not eating the same thing all week. You will be able to socialize and have a variety of foods to change things up.

3. Be Social
   Mental health also plays an important role in healthy aging. Make it a point to schedule get-togethers with friends and family, join clubs, volunteer, and stay connected. This helps to prevent loneliness and isolation, which can take a toll on your well-being. Find activities you enjoy, that make you happy, and that keep your mind sharp.
4. Get Recommended Health Screenings
   Be proactive when it comes to your health by getting recommended screenings. Not only can it catch potential issues early on, but it can also give you greater peace of mind. Knowing that you are taking care of your body can boost your mental health as well. Talk to your doctor about which screenings are right for you.
5. Stay positive
   Focus on the good things in life. Find the silver linings and make the most of each situation. When you change your thinking, it can change how you approach life and give every day greater purpose. Positive thinking can also help ward off depression.

Partnering with an in-home care provider can allow you to not only age in place more safely, but also stay involved with the things you enjoy. A caregiver can accompany you on outings, help with scheduling appointments, assist with meal planning and preparation, and support a wide range of other activities. Contact Always Best Care today at (855) 470-2273 to schedule your free consultation and learn more about how you can benefit from in-home care.