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Senior Physical and Mental Health
As you age, it can get a little more difficult to get around and your memory might not be as sharp as it once was. However, this doesn’t mean you should sit back and watch as the years go by. Your health is important, even more so when you consider age-related health conditions such as osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. Seniors, it’s time to take back control of your physical and mental health, and here’s how you can do it.
Simplify Meal Time
Remember those age-related health conditions discussed earlier? Well, another symptom of aging you may experience is related to your diet. As you get older, your sensitivity decreases, meaning your changed sense of smell and taste could leave you without an appetite. Dental issues can make it hard to chew, and medications can have a negative impact on your appetite. Perhaps the problem you have is getting to the store, whether due to lack of energy, poor mobility, or trouble driving. Rather than let your nutrition suffer, consider a meal delivery service where you can choose from a variety of services, price points, and menu options, including vegan, vegetarian, and heart-healthy recipes. If your budget is tight or you just prefer making your own meals, look into having healthy groceries delivered right to your home.
Make the Most of Quiet Time
Now that retirement has arrived and/or the kids have left the nest, you’ll likely be left with a lot more free time. While there is certainly nothing wrong with a relaxing nap, why not make the most of that quiet time by engaging in activities that stimulate your brain? Exercising your brain keeps your memory sharp, improves cognitive function, and reduces your risk of developing dementia. The best part is that improving your mental health is easy and budget-friendly. If you have the newspaper delivered, complete the crossword and Sudoku puzzles as well as the comic strip that requires you to spot the differences. Consider exploring hobbies that improve your hand-eye coordination such as knitting, painting, or putting together a puzzle.
Bring the Gym to You
Physical activity is important, but getting to the gym might be difficult whether due to your schedule, mobility, budget, or personal preference. The good news is that you can get the same exercise you would at a gym in your own home. If you have a spare room that doesn’t get much use, consider clearing it out to make room for a home gym. You’re probably thinking about the cost of equipment, but through online shopping at stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, you can score a deal. To avoid adding clutter and the accompanying tripping hazards to your home, move unnecessary items currently in your home gym space to an entirely different location. If you don’t have storage space available in your home, it may be time to look into renting space in a local storage unit. Be sure to budget appropriately: the overall average price of a self-storage unit booked in New York City over the past 180 days is approximately $94.
If you’d prefer the gym and the variety of classes offered, understand that the average gym membership will run you $40 to $50 a month. However, you need to consider how often you will avoid paying for a service you will rarely use. The cost will be offset if you enjoy the added socialization, as well as the guidance and instruction from gym staff and instructors.
Don’t Be Ashamed of Naps
Growing up, you probably equated naps with something older people do. However, there’s nothing wrong with taking one – in fact, it’s good for you. When you find yourself feeling groggy and sleepy mid-afternoon, take a snooze. Sleep for no longer than an hour and a half to avoid tossing and turning at night. You’ll enjoy benefits such as feelings of rejuvenation, extra energy, and improved motor learning. A nap is equivalent to a cup of coffee, minus the caffeine headaches, dependence, and sleep disturbances. Here’s some more tips for seniors trying to catch some Z’s.
No matter what age you are, you need to be in control of your physical and mental health. By simplifying meals, doing brain exercises, making fitness convenient, and enjoying a nap, you are well on your way. Being healthy is easier than you think, so don’t let your age stop you!
