It is never about just wanting to live longer, but it is more about hoping to lead a much healthier and happier life for longer. If you are looking to age with grace, here are some secrets to healthy aging that we have put together to help you achieve what you have been looking for.
Watch Your Diet
Having a balanced diet is one of the main contributing factors that can lead to a healthier and happier life. It promotes overall body wellness and helps provide adequate energy for day-to-day activities. Eating well can also help prevent a variety of illnesses that may further worsen your quality of life. An ideal daily diet needs to comprise lots of fruit and vegetables, foods that are low in saturated fat, oily fish, whole grains, and small amounts of lean meat and low-fat dairy products. At Discovery Village At Melbourne, residents of our senior living community get to enjoy restaurant-style dining which caters to their unique dietary requirements for well-balanced meals every day.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily can help to prevent gum disease. These are basic steps that get rid of food and plaque from the teeth to keep them healthy for longer. If food and plaque are left to build up, your gums may start to swell and bleed which may eventually lead to gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease may link to stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease.
Stay Physically Active
Exercising daily can help you to stay fit and healthy. This will help you to prevent weight-related issues like heart disease, obesity, diabetes, stroke, and even cancer. Staying physically active can also improve your sleep, boost your self-esteem, and provide you with more energy for good mobility and flexibility. It is recommended for older adults to exercise at least 150 minutes each week, doing physical activities of moderate intensity.
Get the Most Out of Your Doctor’s Visits
It is a good idea to visit your doctor at regular intervals to have your cholesterol and blood pressure levels checked routinely. High readings may increase your risk of heart disease and stroke but early detection of symptoms can fully reverse the said medical conditions through medication. You can even seek advice from your doctor regarding the flu jab to prevent contracting severe medical problems caused by the flu.
Get a Boost of Vitamins
The majority of us experience a lack of vitamin D which we are not even aware of. In fact, it affects an estimated half of the adult population. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with bone problems, cognitive impairment, and cardiovascular disease. These conditions can be prevented by spending some time outside in the sun for at least 15 to 20 minutes daily to soak in the sunshine. Vitamin D can also be found in foods such as oily fish and eggs which you can consider adding to your daily diet. Alternatively, you may also purchase vitamin D supplements which you can get recommendations from your doctor.