There is a nice article on Healthy Aging on the Care2 website. They provided a link to Top Ten Healthy Aging Tips.
Let’s go through each one:
- “Eat healthy food” – First of all eat fresh fruits, vegetables and grains. I found that having a garden is a great way to improve your diet. The taste of fresh tomatoes, kale, parsley, and basil picked from your own garden is so much better than vegetables bought in the grocery store. Farmer’s markets are also a good source of healthy, organic fresh fruits and vegetables. I have started using grapeseed oil in addition to olive oil and these are great sources of healthy fats. It’s also good if you can find a source of fresh seafood. Eating fish at least once or twice a week is not only delicious but healthy. If you like meat, that’s fine, just don’t overdo it. The one thing you should try to avoid is processed junk foods. Try to skip the aisle with all the junk food when you shop. Instead get fresh fruit such as grapes, clementines, etc. for your snacks. For more information on healthy eating check this link: Seniors Food and Nutrition Center.
- “Exercise regularly” – Everyone has their own preferred exercise. However, walking is something everyone should do. If you have a local park or scenic route that can make a nice walk. Hiking is another exercise that can be beneficial. The main thing you want to do is to make exercising a habit that you cannot do without.
- “Keep your blood pressure at a normal level.” Consult your doctor on what you need to do. Losing weight along with exercise and a healthy diet will help. Finding ways to relax and avoid stress is also helpful.
- “Don’t smoke.” It may be difficult to quit but once you stop smoking you won’t regret it. You will save money and feel healthier.
- “Get enough sleep.” This is a big problem especially for people who have long commutes to work. One way around this is to have a fixed bedtime that will enable you to get eight hours of sleep. If there are television shows you want to watch later, record them with a DVR or you can watch many of them online. Don’t waste valuable sleep time staying up late watching television. Technology can allow you to get your full night’s sleep and watch what you want when you want.
- “Prevent overexposure to sunlight.” Too much sun can lead to skin cancer and eye problems. When you are out in the bright sun wear sunglasses. Use sunscreen, wear hats, and cover up if you will be outdoors for extended periods.
- “Schedule regular check-ups.” Make sure that you have an annual physical exam from your primary care doctor. Use an online calendar like Google calendar or 30.boxes to set up reminders for your appointments.
- “Keep your mind active.” Don’t just sit passively watching television. Find some hobbies that you enjoy. Learn new skills. Play games with others. Read, write, paint, sing, make music, act. You can make valuable contributions to society. Attend events such as concerts, plays, presentations, workshops, etc.Local libraries have many of these for free. If you can’t go in person you can watch webinars and attend online events to interact with other people. The AARP website has a place where people can play games online together.
- “Be social.” Join clubs, attend meetings and social events. Hang out with friends and do things together.
- “Alleviate stress.” Find ways to relax. Identify what causes your stress and make a plan to reduce it. If pain stresses you speak with your primary care physician.