As you age, your body goes through a lot of changes, increasing your risk of exposure to health-related issues. Growing older, however, does not mean that you are doomed to a challenging life health-wise. Choosing the correct health habits can help you age well and stay healthy for long. Below are five practices every senior citizen should observe for better health.
1. Have a health insurance
Having health insurance is vital. Lack of health insurance means less medical care and a financial burden to your loved ones in case you get sick. It also helps to have life insurance for elderly people, which can sometimes double as an investment and supplement your retirement income. The cash value obtained from the life insurance policy can help you fund a healthy lifestyle and cater for emergencies as well.
2.Prevention is always better than cure
Every senior citizen should have routine body checkup, which is composed of a blood test, urine test, -cardiac test, x-ray, and more. A disease such as cancer, when detected in its early stages is easily curable. There are also vaccinations such as TdAP for whooping cough and Td tetanus vaccine for seniors.
Minding your oral health is also essential because your enamel tends to wear away with age, causing you to develop cavities, among other dental conditions. Schedule visits to a dentist at least twice a year to check the condition of your teeth.
Yearly eye checkups are also important to assure the health of your eyes, especially if you wear corrective glasses.
3. Get around people
Being around people makes you feel livelier and reduces stress, depression, and anxiety, lengthening your lifespan. Another benefit of socializing is increasing your self-esteem. Encourage your family members and friends to visit often. You can also join clubs for seniors, volunteer, or do anything else that gets you where people are.
4. Activate your mind
Mental exercises will help keep your mind sharp since mental capacity tends to decline with age. You can find internet brain games for seniors on the internet or play card and board games. Games such as chess and solving puzzles are good for mental health. Make a habit of reading and writing; you can even learn something new. More importantly, see to have fun as you put your brain to work.
5. Eat right and work out
Your digestive system slows down as you age, so you need to eat lots of fiber-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables. Whole grains and whole foods are also nutritious. Consider foods which are low in fat and cholesterol. You also need to drink lots of water to avoid dehydration. Taking short or long strolls and performing leg stretches when seated can do wonders in helping you stay healthy as well. Ensure you move about even if that means taking on some light house chores.
There are certain things you should avoid as a senior citizen. These include exposing yourself to the sun, drinking, and smoking. Additionally, consult your physician on the types of drugs that you should take with caution or avoid altogether.
