It’s no secret that our bodies need more attention as we age. With time, our bodies are more prone to physical health challenges such as heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. Similarly, we are also more susceptible to dementia and other mental health issues. Thankfully, some small but meaningful lifestyle changes can improve our strength, endurance, immune system, and self-confidence.
#1 Eating Healthy is Primary Elderly Care Step
Fast food, soda, and sweets are loaded with sugar and unhealthy for people of all age groups. But they can be particularly harmful to older adults. Instead of consuming unhealthy food, cook healthier recipes that incorporate whole grains, leafy greens, crunchy vegetables, fibre, lean meats, and fresh fruit.
Of course, cooking healthy food can sometimes be time-consuming. Moreover, not everyone enjoys preparing meals in the kitchen.
Many people near retirement age nowadays look for retirement communities that offer fresh, healthy, tasty, and age-appropriate meals. For example, residents of these Ottawa senior apartments have access to delicious homemade meals and snacks that accommodate their dietary needs and are prepared by a hardworking and talented chef. Moreoever, at that particular residence, all meals are provided for all levels of care, including independent.
#2 Drink More Water
The next time you consider reaching for that can of pop or sugary orange drink, consider opting for water instead. Water is like magic. Just drinking six to eight glasses of water a day can provide older adults the following benefits:
- Improves oral hygiene by washing away food particles and mouth bacteria
- Lowers the risk of ailments such as strokes, kidney disease, and urinary tract infections
- Hydrates skin to keep it healthy
- Improves the healing process
- Prevents older adults from overeating or consuming unhealthy drinks
- Reduces the risk of painful constipation
#3 Take Care of Oral Hygiene
Many of us underestimate the value of good oral hygiene. Brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash regularly while visiting the dentist periodically can certainly keep our teeth and gums healthy. With healthy teeth and gums, older adults can consume crunchy nutritious food easily. Good oral hygiene also improves self-confidence, helping older adults socialize and avoid self-esteem problems.
But there are more subtle benefits to maintaining oral hygiene too. Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and the vital organs, including the heart and brain. Gum disease in older adults can often trigger illnesses like heart disease, stroke, and even dementia.
#4 Adopt an Active Lifestyle
From preventing disease and risk of falls to improving mental health, muscle strength, endurance, and cognitive function, exercise can significantly boost anyone’s health.
The good news is that you don’t have to run the Boston Marathon every day to reap the advantages of physical activity. Instead, try the following measures to adopt an active lifestyle:
- Walk an extra 30 minutes a day, five days a week
- Try some low-intensity exercises like yoga or stretching
- Lift light weights at the fitness training centre
- Consider doing push-ups against the wall
- Swim a few laps a few days a week at the pool, especially if you have joint or back pain
Besides these four steps, spend more time socializing for your mental health. Join group activities at your retirement community or consider walking with your friends and family to nourish your mind and body.
