5 Healthy Habits For Seniors

As we age, it becomes more important to pay attention to our health and wellness needs, and to take preventative and proactive measures to keep our bodies moving and our minds sharp. While winter months can make it harder to stay on top of exercise and social time, it’s important to aim for a healthy diet of nutritious foods and some movement each day.

One of the most important ways to keep our health strong is by making sure that we get enough sleep each night. While you sleep, your body recovers and rejuvenates from the day, and getting ample sleep each day will set you up to feel your best, helping you to make good choices. Staying in contact with your physician and making sure to have regular checkups will go a long way to help prevent illness or injury, and keeping up your longtime, daily crossword habit will keep your brain sharp.

Here are 5 healthy habits to keep you feeling your best, all year long!

Nutrition & Exercise
As you age, so does your digestive system, making it harder to digest certain kinds of foods. Make sure to consume a diet high in fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables. Opt for lean proteins that are easily digestible, and stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Eating well is as important as moving enough, so make sure to get in 20-30 minutes of movement a day. Even a light walk, bike ride or house cleaning project counts!

Sleep
Sleep is the great healer and equalizer when it comes to total health. Getting the rest you need each night is the foundation for healthy days filled with healthy choices. Not only does your body need sleep to recover, but so does your mind. Make sure to go to bed around the same time each night, and wake up around the same time each day to help your body find its rhythm, and get the sleep you need to feel your best!

Preventative Care
Make sure to get your annual physical each year, including specialized screenings and vaccinations. Screenings like colonoscopies, mammograms and basic blood work can help to flag any potential health issues, and stop the progression before it begins.

Stay Social
Keep your mental and emotional health in tact by staying connected to friends, neighbors and family members. While quiet time is always necessary, social engagement is important to help keep you feeling upbeat and connected.

Engage Your Brain
Sharp-minded folks know that if you don’t use it, you can start to lose it. Keep your brain and memory going strong by doing regular crossword puzzles, participating in games, reading daily, writing often, knitting, sewing or any other hobbies that keep your mind engaged.