People are living longer. However, reaching old age is not synonymous with being healthy. In fact, more and more older adults must consider long-term senior care in welcoming and specialist places such as the Catholic Care Center. Long-term care centers serve a unique purpose for seniors who require special and continual care for their safety as a result of:
- Debilitating cognitive disorders such as dementia
- Reduced mobility
- Conditions requiring constant medical assistance and medications
It goes without saying that senior centers are often an essential requirement of a long and happy life. Many families search for the best care options to look after their elderly loved ones. Nobody wants to think about the day when we will grow old and require senior care. But the truth is that you can start today to preserve your health in older age.
Keep up-to-date with medical check-ups
Your doctor can help you stay healthy for longer by identifying conditions early and preventing serious issues. Therefore, it is essential to plan regular check-ups and reach out to your specialist as soon as you notice that something is wrong. Maintaining a trust relationship with your doctor will put you in a better position to look after your health and prevent harmful conditions.
Incorporate strength training
In old age, a number of functional and physiologic functions decline, which contributes to a reduction in mobility and stability. Falls are more likely to be a frequent occurrence in old age as the body loses muscle strength and mobility. Unfortunately, a reduction of bone density also happens in old age, which can make falls more devastating and dangerous. Strength training, however, has been proven to combat weakness and frailty, preserving muscle mass, muscle strength, and bone density. Experts recommend strength training exercises 2 to 3 times a week to reduce the risks of weakness associated with old age.
Focus on a healthy and balanced diet
You can’t wait until you’re old to establish healthy eating habits. Ideally, you want to fuel your body with plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals throughout your life. A healthy diet should include:
- lean protein
- fruits and vegetables
- whole grains
- low-fat dairy
As you grow older, your metabolism slows down, which means that you require fewer calories. The American Heart Association provides excellent material on daily servings for seniors and younger adults.
Get plenty of sleep
Adequate sleep is essential to your health. When you sleep, your body can recharge its energy, reduce stress levels, and boost the immune system. Lack of sleep can affect your physical health, making you more vulnerable to infections and viruses.
Additionally, sleep also preserves your cognitive health. Sleep deprivation in middle age can put you at risk of dementia in later years.
Stay socially connected
Social isolation in old age can contribute to dementia, depression, and the loss of mobility. However, social isolation is not a habit that appears when you grow older. It is a routine you develop during your life. For instance, office workers are more at risk as they tend to divide their lives between the workplace and their homes, reducing opportunities to make friends and engage in social activities.
Protecting yourself in old age starts today. You don’t need to wait until you see your first white hair to consider preventive care and health habits. On the contrary, being healthy later begins here and now with a positive lifestyle.
