As most people age, more often than not, bad health habits develop no matter how many good health habits used to be in effect. For that very reason, and more, certain lifestyle changes become necessary – if, that is, the person in question wants to live a long and healthy life.
Has your aging loved one developed some not-so-desirable habits that are affecting their health? Together, you can work on the changes in lifestyle needed for them to be healthier and enjoy their golden years to their fullest.
Let’s look at some of the best lifestyle changes one can make in pursuit of mental and physical wellness.
Keep Busy and Make New Friends
Activities among friends can provide an opportunity for socialization and, in some cases, physical exercise. To keep your loved one’s mind sharp, consider engaging them in a game of chess, or encouraging them to do crossword puzzles, sudoku, and more.
Attending parties and dances with other retirement age adults is a great way for your loved one to not only socialize and make new friends but to lessen the chance of brain and body atrophy.
Exercise
Exercise is absolutely vital, even if your retirement age loved one has physical limitations. Consider a modified yoga routine if strenuous exercise is out of the question. Of the many benefits that can be experienced through exercise, better sleep, an energy boost, mood improvement, better circulation, weight loss, and more are included.
Focus on Illness/Disease Prevention
Rather than treating an illness once it already takes hold, it’s far better to prevent illness and disease before it can have a negative effect. With vaccinations, screenings, medications, and regular doctor appointments, illnesses and diseases are better and more effectively prevented.
For age 55+ adults, COVID, shingles, pneumonia, and flu vaccines are crucial. Check with your loved one’s personal physician if in doubt.
Get Enough Sleep
If you ask the average person on the street whether or not they get enough sleep, their answer is likely to be, “No!” Most people wish they could get more sleep. As a person ages, however, it becomes even more important to get an adequate amount of shut-eye so that the body can heal, refresh, revitalize, and rejuvenate.
At least two hours before bedtime, encourage your loved one to turn off the TV, tablets, smartphones, etc. This helps the body realize it’s going to be time for bed soon. Also, remember that an adequate amount of exercise during the day helps the body sleep at night.
Healthy Eating Habits
There are very few people in the world today who haven’t developed an unhealthy eating habit or two. Some insist on visiting fast food joints more than eating at home. Some insist on unhealthy snacks at home. The options for unhealthy eating are limitless.
Deciding to eat more healthily is a choice that, as a person ages, becomes necessary. Fiber and hydration end up being two of the things that are increasingly important as our body ages. Making sure your aging loved one has enough fiber in their diet and drinks enough water will go a long way toward keeping them healthy.
Enjoy A Healthy Lifestyle at Rittenhouse Village At Michigan City
Residents at Rittenhouse Village At Michigan City can enjoy a healthy and happy lifestyle. With Celebrations Activities and Events, numerous activities and events are provided including themed parties, exciting games, educational programs, exercise programs, and more. In Dimensions Health and Fitness, you will focus on physical, medical, spiritual, social, intellectual, and emotional wellness through spiritual gatherings, exercise classes, educational opportunities, and more.
