One of the best ways to slow aging is through physical activity, according to recent research. Studies like this underscore the importance of taking charge of our health and not leaving it to chance as we age.
That's particularly important if you have ambitions for a busy, active, and fulfilling retirement in vibrant Kansas City, MO.
In this guide, we'll examine some of the ways to keep yourself in excellent health as you age. So what are protective factors for a healthy retirement? Let's explore some of them here.
It will come as no surprise to see exercise on this list. It's well known that staying physically active at any age, but particularly in your senior years, can protect you from a range of health problems.
Exercise in your senior years doesn't have to mean hours spent at the gym using heavy weights. Light activities can be enough to support muscle strength, balance, and flexibility, the three key factors for staying active and in shape in your later years.
Try:
If you are in a senior living community, find out what group classes are available. These will be adapted to the needs of seniors, ensuring you don't strain your body or risk injury.
A good diet is a foundational step for any health goal, so it's one of the best protective factors for aging well. Seniors benefit from a balanced diet that includes:
It's also essential to limit highly processed foods and foods high in sugar and salt. Swap those for meals made with fresh, whole ingredients, and you will begin to see the health benefits. It will boost your immunity, keep bones and muscles strong, and provide ample energy for the day ahead.
It's also important to stay hydrated, especially in warmer weather. Hydration helps protect mobility and memory.
Did you know that staying connected is a critical way to protect your mental health?
Talking to friends or catching up with loved ones has a mood-boosting effect and can be a form of medicine if you are feeling low or stressed. It also protects against loneliness, which is a risk factor for poor mental and physical health as you age.
Aim to do at least one activity a day where you will interact with others.
That could be joining senior social activities like a hobby group or a fun evening event in your local community. Even a short phone call with a close family member can help ease negative emotions.
Choose an excellent healthcare provider with a reputation for preventive care. Taking preemptive steps with your health through scans and checkups can ensure you get prompt treatment for a condition and lessen the risk of complications.
Healthcare providers can also take other protective steps, such as giving you the latest vaccinations and doing regular checks on your blood pressure and cholesterol.
You should also ensure you get timely hearing and vision checks. It helps protect you from mobility and balance problems that could put you at higher risk of a fall in your senior years.
Preventive medicine can also help support you with emerging mental health symptoms, helping to manage and address these before symptoms worsen.
Insomnia can have a devastating impact on your health and well-being, leaving you lacking the energy to enjoy the day ahead. Sleep problems can also be more prevalent as you get older, so developing good sleeping habits is a must. Here are some tips:
Good sleep routines help improve memory and concentration, and they can also regulate your mood. Furthermore, they can boost your immune system, helping to protect you from harmful viruses and complications.
Cognitive stimulation will help exercise the brain, just as a fitness class can exercise your muscles. Looking after the brain protects against age-related decline, such as memory loss.
There are fun and easy activities you can incorporate into your daily routine to keep your brain active, such as:
You can also try stimulating activities such as painting, reading, or cooking. Keeping your brain active with problem-solving and image processing can help you stay focused and may also boost self-esteem for some seniors.
Stress management can help protect you against mental health conditions, and it can also improve your physical health, such as lowering your blood pressure.
Stress management refers to simple techniques and methods that help stop racing thoughts and get you focused on the present moment. It can help you feel calmer and more confident.
Mindfulness is one of the most effective techniques, as are deep breathing exercises. If you are in a senior living community, find out what stress management classes they offer.
As you age, you are more at risk of falls and slips, making you more vulnerable to broken bones or head injuries. That's because our mobility and balance begin to decline as our bodies become more frail.
Exercise can help, but it's also essential to create a safe environment that minimizes the risk of a fall.
Choose non-slip flooring, grab bars, and wide entryways. Make sure you have an emergency alarm system in your private apartment so that you can alert your care team to a fall, ensuring you get prompt assistance.
So what are protective factors for senior health? In short, they are a combination of activities and habits that support mental and physical health.
That's why many seniors choose to live in a community that offers ample opportunities to stay active.
With daily on-site activities, calming surroundings, and supportive care staff, Addington Place of Shoal Creek has everything you need to look after your well-being and health. Take a tour now to discover more.