The better you take care of yourself – and the earlier you start living right, eating healthy and visiting with friends and family – the longer you just might live! We have put together a list of 5 simple ways senior adults can live a healthier life — even though there are many more, this is a great jumping off point.
The professionals from Baldwin House Senior Living in Michigan are so committed to “family, friends and happiness” that it is our logo, our mission and what our life enrichment directors strive for every day. We spend a lot of time finding ways to keep our wonderful residents happy and healthy and involved and we wanted to share some of our favorite staying-healthy tips for older adults.
Healthy habits are crucial to aging well. It is even more important for seniors to take care of themselves and there is no better day to start than today, with setting good habits for a lifetime.
5 simple ways senior adults can live a healthier life
Healthy eating matters. Eating healthy, non-processed foods is one of the best things that anyone can do to keep themselves healthy. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day. Make them part of your meals and snack time. Eat fruits and veggies raw or cooked in different ways so you don’t get bored. Oven-roasted vegetables, drizzled with olive oil and a little balsamic vinegar and sprinkled with pepper and your favorite herb is a delicious way to shake up your eating in a healthy way. Don’t completely deny yourself but when you want to indulge in cookies, ice cream or candy do so in moderation.
Get moving! You don’t have to run a marathon but getting up and taking a walk is crucial to good health. Walk around your home or apartment if the weather isn’t good for outdoor walking. Take a chair yoga class. Look for a community swimming pool and take a water aerobics class. Start out slowly so you don’t get injured. You may also want to talk with your doctor and ask what he or she recommends for you in your quest to get more active. Turn on your favorite song and dance around your house! Moving is a definite mood lifter.
Get your sleep. As we get older, we seem to go to sleep earlier and get up earlier, and if that’s your routine, that’s great BUT make sure you’re getting enough sleep – seven to eight hours a night. Sleep is necessary to help your body restore itself.
Socialize. It may not seem like talking with family and friends is key to good health, but it is. When you socialize and have a social support network, this can lead to a better overall health outlook. Covid had an impact on people being able to get together and that leads to depression, but now that restrictions are being eased, make sure you’re spending time with family and friends. If you have family and friends who live far away, there is nothing like a video call to stay in touch.
A sharp mind is ideal for greater health as you age. Many older adults will suffer memory loss as they age. It doesn’t matter what your age is to misplace your keys! Keeping your mind sharp by reading, writing, playing games and solving word puzzles will help preserve your thinking skills and memory.
Make a plan today for your health and happiness for the rest of your life!
Visit a Baldwin House Senior Living community near you and ask what activities we have planned for our residents as we welcome autumn together. Baldwin House Senior Living is built upon the strong foundation of guiding families and empowering seniors.
We offer families peace of mind and give seniors who call Baldwin House home the freedom to live their very best lives. Call us today to schedule a visit. We’d love to meet you or your loved one!