Even in old age, there’s no reason not to take care of yourself. Whether it’s a walk in the park or choosing fruit instead of dessert, finding simple habits to integrate into your everyday life is the easiest way to stay healthy. With old age, you might see a decline in your physical health even when your mind feels 30! So what are some practical ways to keep your mind—and body—feeling younger?
Light strength training is a great way to improve senior health and coordination, and can even be done at home with a chair (and pillow, if needed). There are lots of simple stretches that can be done from a seated or standing position, for example, off the wall push-ups, toe stands, or finger marching. Simply get stretching for 30 minutes a day to feel an improvement in blood circulation and overall demeanor.
But even with physical care, diet is a huge factor in overall senior health. There are some tests you can do with your doctor to adjust your dietary habits as you get older. A simple dental check can be a great place to start. Dental pain in general can be troublesome during meals when teeth can no longer handle breaking apart proteins like red meat. But gum disease is also a predecessor to heart and cardiovascular issues, so it’s important to make sure your doctor is paying attention to your teeth and mouth.
Further down the gastrointestinal system is the micro biome of the gut. In recent years, gut microbiology has become a vital part of the way we view overall health in people both young and old. Eating probiotics like yogurt with active cultures several times a week can improve intestinal strength. Consider adding some extra spice to your meals to aid in digestion — even if your taste buds no longer register the intensity of the heat. Even taking a bath in Epsom salts can help bowel movement regularity, but make sure to talk to your doctor about what magnesium sulfate intake is right for you.
There are many steps that you and your loved ones can take to stay ahead of the age curve. Starting with the simple steps right from your home, including drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet and moving your body on a daily basis can be incredibly beneficial for maintaining an active demeanor even after your physical health starts to decline. The most important thing to remember is that it’s never too late to get started on the road to a healthier you.
Here at Freedom Home Care we offer many options to support you and your family. We’re here for you 24 hours a day, so feel free to contact us with any questions about our in-home healthcare services.