Every stage of life needs a different state of care and sensitivity to your lifestyle. As children, we depend on our guardians, as adults, we follow diet regimes and exercise schedules and as senior citizens again our care and routine change to reflect our needs. There are, unfortunately, many who neglect these changes that are needed in one’s routine and lifestyle as one age’s and hence ends up suffering immeasurably.
Being aware is the first significant step. Next is gathering knowledge and insights. Third is to get into action. Through this article, we endeavour to take you through all three stages and help you understand healthy lifestyle tips for senior citizens.
Here are a few things you should remember so listen up all you baby boomers :
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Quit smoking
Firstly, and fore mostly, get rid of the smoking habit if you’ve picked it up at any point in your life. It does lead to cancer and strokes which could both be fatal. It also leads to erectile dysfunction and excessive wrinkling, both associated with old age.
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Eat well
Right amount of nutritious food which suits your system is the key to a healthy life. In fact, many illnesses that befall people in their old age can be managed through a proper and regular diet.
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Eat on time
This may be as important as eating well. Regularity in your meal and being conscious of the timing of intake and gap between food and sleep will lead to ease in digestion, better sleep and a feeling of freshness.
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Exercise
Following a good diet and maintaining your meal times is not enough. One has to remain active despite their age and health. While your body may not allow for strenuous activity, a little bit of movement and physical activity is a must – take a brisk walk, do yoga or cycle on a steady bike… whatever appeals to you.
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Get yourself regular medical checkups
Keeping oneself updated on immunization and other medical screenings is also a necessity. By 50, all women should get a mammogram done annually and men should have their prostate checked. Visit your doctor to understand your test results and take preventive care where possible.
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Prevent falls
That is probably the most basic yet crucial thing. With age, one loses their sense of balance and vision is not at optimum. And in such a state, even a little bit of an uneven surface can lead to a major injury. It is important to take all necessary steps to prevent injury – use a walking stick, try to hang up all wires and cords, use night lamps and avoid carpets and rugs.
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Manage stress
Old age comes with own set of problems – physical, emotional and mental. It becomes easier to get stressed. Not only is this harmful to your health but it also causes a crack in many a relationship. Hence it is important to keep those stress hormones in check.
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Be social
Meet friends and relatives regularly. Learn to use the internet and catch up with people and news via social media. This helps relieve stress and also keeps you active.
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Ear, eyes and dental checkups
These are a must. Annual checkups of these vital organs mean early detection and prevention of any problems as well as good upkeep. A slight change in vision or hearing should trigger immediate action in the form of tests and doctor visits.
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Maintain a healthy weight
It is very easy to put on weight as one age’s. It is imperative to ensure that an ideal weight is maintained. It is undeniably a prevention of many health complications.
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Take up a hobby
It could be something rigorous or something peaceful. Gardening is a major go-to for older people while traveling is a huge favorite for many people post retirement.
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Do not shy away from sexual intimacy
While your body has undergone many changes, it does not mean that you cannot remain sexually active. Adapt to those changes and continue to fan the flame.
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Take up a mental activity
Reading, solving puzzles, Sudoku or crosswords are all good options. It is important to keep your mind engaged and involved. If none of this appeals to you, do your taxes yourself. That should keep you going.
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Be around kids and pets
They are the biggest stress busters and can gain a lot from your company. If you have grandkids, offer to babysit them and if you don’t have a pet or can’t get one, offer to take care of pets for people who have to go out for work.
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Stay hydrated
Lastly and perhaps most importantly, stay hydrated. Carry water with you everywhere you go and set reminders to consume it. You can also opt for fresh fruit juices like aloe vera or jamun juice.
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