Don’t believe the myth that it’s too late for seniors to embrace healthy aging practices. In fact, there’s no better time for seniors to focus on their health and wellness.
Seniors who struggle with physical or mental issues will certainly need the help of their family caregivers and home care providers to assist them in making lifestyle changes, both large and small. Many elderly adults already suffer with disease, chronic conditions, and age-related complications. However, even small but effective healthy lifestyle changes can have a big impact on their overall health.
Here are just a few things that elderly adults, family caregivers, and home care providers can implement to facilitate more healthy aging:
- Eat a balanced diet including organic vegetables and fruits
- Drink plenty of water, at least eight glasses per day
- Take multivitamins designed for seniors with a doctor’s approval
- Reduce the intake of drugs or alcohol and stop smoking
- Participate in at least 30 minutes of activity or exercise at least three days each week
- Cultivate good nightly sleep habits for restful and restorative sleep
- Get out of the house several times per week to run errands and interact with the community
- Schedule time for social visits with friends and family members
- Adjust elements in the home for safety, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom
- Receive an annual exam from the doctor to review health status
- Take medications in proper amounts and at the right time of day
- See a therapist for help during stressful, sad or anxious times
- Build a proper support network of friends, family, clergy, doctors, and healthcare providers
Some changes will be easy to implement, while others will be much more challenging. A lot depends on the current state of health and wellness. The first steps toward a healthier lifestyle are the hardest, but seniors with a strong support group and the determination to look and feel better will find success.
When it comes to embracing healthy aging practices, quick fixes are never going to be the answer. It requires making changes and sticking with them for the long haul. Many family caregivers and home care providers that want to help elderly adults make healthy living changes start with one or two new things, then increase slowly. This allows for time to adjust and make new habits rather than feeling frustrated and giving up.
Remember, it’s never too late to embrace the idea that seniors can have some control over their own health. With the support of family caregivers and home care providers, aging adults can give it their all and benefit from their new outlook on life.
