1. Stay Active
Physical activity is important for older adults. Exercise such as walking, chair aerobics, water aerobics, tai chi and stretching can help control weight, build muscles and bones, improve balance, posture and mood. Even if you suffer from heart disease, diabetes or arthritis, many of these conditions may get better with mild to moderate physical activity!
2. See your Doctor Regularly
Regular wellness visits with your healthcare provider is important. Discuss any changes in your health, review advance directives and medications. Annual screening tests are important to remember. Ask your doctor if you should be getting any new booster or immunization shots.
3. Protect Yourself From Falls
Falls are the leading cause of injuries and death among older adults. Eliminate items in your home that are trip hazard like, throw rugs, excess furniture and wet floors. Exercising can increase your strength, balance and flexibility and help avoid falls. Ask your Doctor to check your medication to make sure you are not taking anything that can make you more likely for a fall. Insert safety rails or grab bars in your bathroom and install night lights so that it is easier to see at night.
4. Keep An Active Mind
Being physically active is just as important as staying mentally active. Our brain controls happiness and as we age, mental health is an important part of being able to live independently. Some stimulating activities include arts and crafts, word games, crossword puzzles, bingo, jigsaw puzzles, trivia and reading. Keeping an active mind is essential to a healthy well-being.
5. Rekindle An Old Friendship OR Find New Friends
You are never too old to find new friends or reach out to an old one. There are many ways to connect such as social media, write a letter, a phone call or video chat. Staying social is a great way to connect with friends in your community. Attending Church, exercise classes, Senior Centers, Volunteering, and visiting with your neighbors. Socialization is vital to your health physically, mentally and emotionally.
