Staying healthy is certainly on everyone’s mind lately. Depending on what phase of life you are in, there are different areas to focus on. We’re going to break down some tips for our more senior friends to stay fit and boost their immune systems. While some may seem obvious, sometimes it’s helpful to see exactly why something benefits us to provide the right motivation.
Be Proactive – Being ahead of the curve is always the preferred position to be in. This includes little things like washing your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs to scheduling your annual physical (and any other subsequent appointments recommended) with your doctor.
Diet and Supplements – Eating well is important no matter what stage of life you are in. Avoid processed foods and sugars and make good decisions when eating out. Eating lots of high fiber food also becomes more important as we age. Besides prescribed medicine, there are over-the-counter supplements that could also be valuable. Consult with your doctor for recommendations based on your bloodwork.
Drink Water – Drinking enough water is one of the easiest yet difficult things to do each day. If you need to add some flavor, the best way is to use natural ingredients like fruits. Lemons, limes, oranges, strawberries, etc. can all be used to add some flavor to your water. You can also add a little fizz to your beverage and enjoy sparkling water!
Physical Activity – Of course, make sure all physical activities are safe and approved by your doctor before beginning. Pick physical activities that you enjoy and can do on your own or with a friend or group. Besides helping maintain a healthy weight, physical activity is a great way to boost your immune system and energy levels, improve your mood, sleep better, and connect with friends.
Manage Stress – Although all the things we mentioned can help lower your stress it’s worth giving it some extra thought. Keeping your mind occupied is a great way to reduce stress. Activities like games, sports, puzzles, painting, cooking, or gardening are all ways to keep your mind engaged in something enjoyable. Trying something new or traveling somewhere you’ve never been are also the perfect retirement activities.
Stay Involved – Stay connected with family, friends, and your community. Make regular dinner plans with family and friends or if you enjoy cooking, dazzle them with your culinary skills. If you want something more structured, often there are many different support groups in a community for times of change. Find volunteer opportunities in your community. Many non-profit organizations, museums, community events are always thankful for volunteers and it’s a great way to meet new people!
While the list could go on for pages, it’s best to not get overwhelmed. Use this as a jumping board to kickstart or maintain your healthy lifestyle. Always be safe, but also be sure to have fun as that’s what life is all about!
