As we get older, staying healthy becomes even more important. The choices we make each day can help us age well and enjoy our later years.
Below are some of our best tips for older adults. You’ll find ideas for eating a balanced diet, staying active, and keeping your body and mind strong. These tips are meant to be simple, clear, and easy to follow.
Practical Tips for Staying Healthy
The best way to stay healthy as you age is to take action early and prevent problems before they start. Regular checkups with your doctor or healthcare provider are an important step. Use your visits to talk openly about any concerns or changes you’ve noticed.
Some other practical tips for staying healthy include:
- Get enough sleep. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep each night and try to maintain a regular sleep schedule.
- Stay up to date on vaccines. Talk with your doctor about which vaccines you need and when to get them.
- Keep track of medications. Use reminders or a pill organizer to help you take your medicine on time.
- Stay connected. Spend time with friends and family or take up hobbies you enjoy to support your mental and emotional well-being.
Eating a Well-Balanced Diet
Eating a healthy, balanced diet is important at any age, but it’s especially important for older adults. A well-rounded diet with nutritious foods gives your body the vitamins and minerals it needs to stay strong and can help prevent or manage chronic health conditions. In the short term, eating healthy foods can also help improve your mental health and mood, enhance energy levels, and support better digestion.
Want to switch up your diet and not sure where to start? Swapping less healthy foods for whole, nutritious options is a great place to start. Some easy tips include:
- Choose a variety of foods from different food groups.
- Select foods that are high in protein, such as lean sources like grilled chicken or salmon, as the basis of your meal.
- Choose fresh fruits and vegetables over processed snacks.
- Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
Physical Activity and Aging
Eating well is a great first step, but pairing it with regular physical activity can give you the best results. Staying active helps keep your muscles strong, improves balance, and allows you to keep doing the things you enjoy.
Good physical health can also lower the risk of falls and help you stay independent. Try these tips:
- Start slowly with new activities and build up over time.
- Choose exercises that you enjoy, like walking, swimming, or group classes.
- Add movement to your day by taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Ask your healthcare team for help finding exercises that fit your needs and abilities.
Find a Location Today
Small changes can make a big difference in how you feel and how you age. Try adding these healthy habits to your daily routine to improve your quality of life. Do you need extra support in learning new ways to promote healthy aging? Find a center near you and speak to our care team about becoming a patient.
