September is Healthy Aging Month! This annual observance is designed to focus on the positive aspects of growing older. We at Community Care are excited to take advantage of the opportunity to spread awareness and share resources for the geriatric community.
As we begin to grow older and reach higher ages, you’ll notice your immune system is not what it used to be. With aging comes wisdom, memories, and unfortunately, a higher risk of developing chronic diseases, like hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and dementia. But there is good news! There are several ways to improve your health and prevent chronic disease as you get older.
Eat Healthy
Eating healthy is important at any age! As you grow older, eating a healthy diet can help improve mental acuteness, boost your energy levels, and increase your immunity to illness. A healthy diet can also help achieve a positive outlook and emotional balance. Did you know, eating fruit, leafy veggies, and fish and nuts wit omega-3 fatty acids have been known to help improve focus and decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
There a few vitamins and minerals that are essential to healthy aging:
- Water – You may be more prone to dehydration as you age because your sense of thirst is not as sharp. So, remember to drink water regularly to avoid urinary tract infections, constipation, and even confusion.
- Vitamin B – After you reach the age of 50 your stomach starts to produce less gastric acid. This makes it harder to absorb vitamin B-12, which is needed to help keep your blood and nerves healthy.
- Vitamin D – Your skin becomes less efficient at synthesizing vitamin D. It’s important to talk with your healthcare professional about your diet being supplemented with fortified foods or a multivitamin.
Be Physically Active
It’s important to keep active and get regular physical activity. Being active can help prevent, delay, and manage chronic diseases. In addition, physical activity can improve balance and stamina, reduce the risk of falls, and even improve brain health!
It’s common for people to think of going to the gym and having this intense workout, causing some hesitation for older adults. But that’s not the case! There are tons of activities you can do, like walking, dancing, gardening, hiking, and swimming.
Stay on Top of Your Health
When we age, our need for regular medical testing typically increases. One thing you will want to test frequently is your blood pressure. Hypertension is often known as a “silent killer” because sometimes the symptoms don’t show until it is too late, making it essential to have your blood pressure checked at least once a year. Other tests include Lipids, Colonoscopy, vaccines, eye exams, periodontal, hearing, bone density, Vitamin D, Thyroid-stimulating hormone screening (TSH), skin, Diabetes test, mammogram, papsmear, and prostate cancer screening.
It’s important to keep up with your health throughout your entire life, but it’s never too late to start! By eating a healthy diet, making sure you are getting the appropriate amount of physical activity and staying on top of your health, you can grow older and stay healthy while preventing chronic diseases.
Speak with your healthcare provider about your current health status and how you can improve and maintain your health. If you need a healthcare provider, speak with our Concierge Care Coordinator at (518) 782-3800, who can help you find the right provider and services for your care needs.
Sources
https://healthyaging.net/september-healthy-aging-month/
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-eating/eating-well-as-you-age.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/healthy-aging.htm