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6 Simple Tips For Seniors To Stay Healthy

As we age, we’re more likely to experience health problems. But the good news is we can improve our health significantly by staying fit and eating right. Below, you’ll learn how you can continue to live an active, healthy life by following a few simple strategies. 

And being fit and active can help if the time comes where you or a loved one need to enter a memory care assisted living facility. 

Get As Active As You Can 

One of the critical things about physical activity is it boosts your immune system. Moving your body with daily exercise helps you fight infections and inflammation that can increase in your older years. 

Fortunately, the activities don’t need to be intense, such as running 10 miles per day. Low-impact workouts are great, too. 

Think about daily walking, swimming, biking, or low-impact aerobics. If you can, try moderate-level exercise for 30 minutes per day, so you get about 150 minutes of activity per week. We also recommend boosting muscle strength by doing yoga or pumping iron. 

Take Supplements As Needed

Studies show that moderate use of supplements can strengthen your immune system, which tends to weaken as we age. Before you take a new supplement, ask your physician if it’s safe and appropriate for you. 

Checking with your doctor is essential because some supplements can interact with prescription medications. Some of the best supplements to take as we age are calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. 

Try To Prevent Infections

Getting your vaccinations each year is an excellent way to maintain your health throughout the year. If you are at least 65, talk to your physician about getting an adjuvant or high-dose flu vaccine. 

Generally, flu season runs between October and May in the US. It takes about 14 days for the vaccine to ‘kick in.’ Experts believe it reduces the chances of flu by 60%. 

However, the flu changes each year, so it’s recommended to get your flu vaccine each year. You also can speak to your physician about receiving vaccines to avoid meningitis and pneumonia. 

Get Sleep

Getting at least 8 hours of sleep per day will drop your stress level. Also, a good night’s sleep is how the body does repairs. So, sleeping well each night will boost your immune system and make it easier for the body to ward off infections. 

Wash Your Hands Often

It’s vital to wash your hands vigorously several times per day, especially if you have been in public places. Viruses can survive on your hands and other surfaces for 24 hours. You could become sick if you touch a surface with viruses on it and touch your face. 

So, scrub your hands with soapy for a minimum of 20 seconds each time. Touch your face, mouth, and nose with your hands as little as possible. 

It’s also helpful to use antibacterial hand sanitizer when you cannot wash your hands. And you can often avoid spreading infections by disinfecting surfaces in your home each day. 

Eat Healthy 

There’s no question that the healthier we eat, the better our overall health will be. Eat a diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats, so you provide your immune system with more strength to fight bacteria and viruses that lead to illnesses. 

Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of antioxidants that safeguard your cells from damage and maintain your health. 

Also, lower the amount of fatty and sugary foods you eat, leading to inflammation in your cells and weakening the immune system. 

Experts also recommend limiting how much alcohol you drink. Talk to your physician about how much is safe for you to drink every week. 

If you follow the guidelines we mention here, you should stay fit and active in your older years!