Aging adults who take great care of their health increase their quality of life for many years. Put personal care first by following these wellness tips for seniors.
Always Put Your Health and Wellness First
As the years go by, our physical and mental health requires extra care and attention. Things like getting enough sleep and annual doctor visits help us age as gracefully as possible. Although life has countless obligations, we must prioritize our health and wellness first and foremost. If we don’t, it may result in rapidly declining health or sudden conditions that could’ve been avoided.
Taking your health and wellbeing seriously and maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated with the right knowledge. Making the necessary changes now pays off in the long run.
What Are Some Wellness Tips for Seniors?
Healthy habits for seniors lead to better health while aging. As we get older, our bodies go through changes beyond our control, such as reduced bone density, slower reflexes, and weaker immunity. Although the aging process has unwanted side effects, healthy habits for seniors enhance long-term physical and cognitive capabilities.
Consider the following wellness tips for seniors:
Prioritize Personal Hygiene and Grooming
You’re probably familiar with the phrase “When you look good, you feel good.” Although looking good is not the only way to feel good, it can help. Taking pride in your appearance boosts your confidence and gets you excited about the day ahead. Senior hygiene plays a significant role in how you look and feel, so stay on top of things like bathing, brushing your teeth, and combing your hair every day. Also, choose clothing that suits you and makes you feel your best.
Adopt a Healthy Diet
As we get older, the food we eat matters more and more. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), keeping a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water offers benefits like:
- An improved digestive system
- Reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers
- Healthy weight management
It’s okay to occasionally treat yourself to a few sweets and snacks, as long as you enjoy them in moderation. However, to live a longer and healthier life, it’s best to be mindful of what you eat.
Get Annual Exams and Screenings
Visiting your doctors regularly is one of the most critical wellness tips for seniors. You may feel fine, but it’s better to confirm your health with an expert than to assume. Not all issues are obvious, and some symptoms may not arise until the problem is serious. Scheduling annual exams, procedures, and vaccinations recommended by your doctor ensures your body functions correctly from the inside out. It’s important to take proactive steps to remain informed about your health.
Manage Your Medication Properly
Managing your medications is key to your body’s proper functionality and wellbeing, especially if you take several pills and supplements daily. You must remember to take certain medications at specific times, store them in appropriate temperature settings, and most importantly, take the correct dose each day.
If it’s becoming harder to keep up with prescriptions and when to take them or you can’t decide on a safe and easily accessible space for them, ask a trusted loved one for help. You might also consider hiring an in-home caregiver who can provide the support you need.
Get Plenty of Rest
Another wellness tip for seniors is to get a good night’s sleep. Giving your body the time it needs to recharge and recuperate from the previous day works wonders for the body, especially if you’re getting older. Sleep deprivation is linked to several health issues, including short-term memory loss, trouble concentrating, high blood pressure, and poor balance. If you’re not getting enough sleep, this is an important issue to address. Sticking to a bedtime schedule, relaxing at the end of the day by reading or meditating, and avoiding heavy meals before bed helps you sleep more soundly.
Socialize
Your solitude and personal time are important. However, spending time with those you love matters too. Studies confirm that isolation and lack of socialization among seniors results in health issues, low self-esteem, and higher stress levels. It’s important to develop a reasonable balance between being alone and bonding with others.
Enjoy the weather with friends and family, attend fun events, and engage with the world around you. By doing so, you combat feelings of loneliness and boost your brain’s happy hormones.
Stay Physically Active
A sedentary lifestyle isn’t ideal for anyone, especially the elderly. Choose fun activities that get your body moving, such as yoga, water aerobics, walking, or jogging. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), exercising boosts serotonin levels, which improves your mental health and reduces stress.
Consider Your Cognitive Health
Your body isn’t the only thing that needs exercise—your brain does too! Puzzles, game shows, and brain teasers are excellent ways to keep yourself occupied and improve your cognitive health. The more you work your brain, the stronger and healthier it remains.
AVCC Cares About Veteran Health and Wellness
At American Veterans Care Connection, we’re dedicated to our clients’ good health, happiness, and overall well-being. We’ve outlined these wellness tips for seniors to combat feelings of fear or discouragement that may come with aging. In addition to our helpful tips for older adults, our primary services help qualifying veterans receive their Aid and Attendance benefits and start home care services. If you’re interested in home care to help you through your daily routines, AVCC is here for you. Call us today to start the process.
AVCC Can Get Help For Your Loved Ones Activities Of Daily Living
If your family member’s caregiver comes from a legitimate home care company, they can provide assistance with activities of daily living. AVCC can deal with government offices, filling out paperwork, and finding a caregiver. Speak with AVCC to start the process.
AVCC Has the Perfect Caregiver for Your Loved One
American Veteran Care Connection takes pride in setting up clients with home care providers in the nation. If you have an elderly or disabled veteran family member, contact our specialists today. It’s our mission to put their minds at ease and be their helping hand. Filling out paperwork, learning their eligibility, and getting a dedicated caregiver doesn’t have to be difficult. We’ll ensure your loved one get help. We look forward to working with you!
