Whether we’d like to admit it or not, our bodies require more upkeep and focus as we age compared to when we were in our younger years. This means we need to take actionable and intentional steps towards maintaining our physical and emotional wellbeing, as well as know where to turn in times of medical need. If you find yourself progressing into your wiser years, these four tips will help you stay healthy and safe as you age.
Tip #1. Exercise Regularly to Keep Aging Muscles Strong
As we age, our muscles begin to lose mass and strength, but this doesn’t mean we should stop exercising. In fact, this is even more reason to stay active. Otherwise, you may find yourself with balance issues, struggling to climb stairs, or even having difficulty walking, which could lead to falls and an overall frustrating loss of mobility. To avoid this, the National Institute on Aging recommends the following for seniors:
- Activities such as Tai Chi or Yoga to help with balance
- 150 minutes of light aerobic activity a week
- Stretching daily for flexibility
- Strength-building exercises such as weightlifting or using resistance bands two to three times a week
Focusing on maintaining a healthy body now will help you stay active longer.
Tip #2. Stay Connected
Taking steps to maintain your emotional wellness is just as important as maintaining your physical health. A key component to maintaining emotional wellbeing is through connecting with others. As we age and retire or our families grow and move away, it can be easy to become isolated. And isolation can cause stress which may lead to other issues such as an increased risk of illness, a weakened immune system and even memory loss. To avoid this, it’s important to maintain some type of social circle. Some ways you might do this include:
- Volunteering
- Starting a hobby that can be enjoyed with others
- Visiting family (or asking them to visit you)
- Visiting a senior center
- Moving to a senior living facility with activities and others your age
Tip #3. Visit Your Health Care Provider Regularly
As your body ages, all kinds of physical ailments become more of a possibility. For this reason, it’s important to visit your health care provider regularly so that you can be more prepared for what may become future issues, as well as quickly address anything that may arise now. You might even consider finding a geriatric physician near you. Geriatric physicians specialize in diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases and ailments in aging adults and are therefore better equipped to help you and answer any questions you may have.
Tip #4. Have a Reliable Supplier for Medical Equipment Needs
At some point, you might need access to a wide inventory and fast delivery of medical equipment. From orthopedic braces to bandages and wraps, make sure you have a reliable supplier to quickly ship any equipment you need. Knowing that you have a company to rely on no matter what medical equipment need may arise will help lower your overall stress levels and give you more time to do things you enjoy.
Prepare for Your Golden Years
Although some things are inevitable as we age, such as loss of muscle and having to move through life at a slower pace than when we were younger, there are steps you can take to help keep your body and your mind active. Through a focus on regular exercise, maintaining a social life, visiting the doctor regularly and having a trusted supplier for items like orthopedic braces and other medical equipment, you’ll be taking steps to stay safe and healthy throughout your wiser years.
