Throughout life, people are changing. Life gives honey and lemons and we never know which one will come, but the way we treat our bodies will directly affect our physical and mental health, especially as we get to the retirement years. In order to feel good no matter the years, and live with as few limitations and complications as possible, check out this short guide and follow through to get the best of this life.
Healthy Nutrition
Our health starts from the food we put into our stomachs. Nutrition is the main factor that strengthens the body and its immune system and even keeps the body young. The most important foods are vegetables and fibres since they ensure the best vitamin and mineral complex that keeps the body’s components functioning normally. The studies show that protein still remains an important part of the older adults‘ diet since collagen structures start breaking after we turn 25.
Additional nutrition in supplements
Unfortunately, the years of agriculture have worsened the chemical components of the land and there are not enough vitamins and minerals in the fruits and vegetables, not the amount of nutritional value that the human body needs. With that and with the strong UVA and UVB rays, with the stress of contemporary society as a cherry on top, science has given the help in the form of supplements. The supplements help to keep the vitamins and minerals levels healthy. The most important supplements for older individuals are complex of vitamin B, vitamin D3, and collagen.
Healthy digestive system
As well as nutrition, the importance of a healthy digestive system is one of the top priorities when it comes to healthy living. Along with a healthy, nutritious diet pumped up by a fine choice of supplements, your most important eating structure needs special attention. Teeth deteriorate with years, especially if the diet includes a lot of carbohydrates and cigars – both are creating an acidic environment that slowly but surely eats away the bones of the teeth. In time you start with the replacement – new dentures are like a new set of teeth! Dentures need care similar to the care of your own teeth, so choose a good dentist and be sure not to miss the appointments!
Regular medical appointments
Yearly appointments at the general practitioner’s office, bloodwork, physiatrist, and dentist are the appointments every person should have each year. There are two more ‘must do’ appointments, a need for a yearly gynaecologist or urologist check-up. As the years go by, the need for control appointments can rise, so some appointments need to be done every 6 months. Additionally, with the development of a health condition, there may be a need for therapy, which even further emphasises the importance of preventative care.
Physical activity
To keep you lively and self-sufficient, you have to keep moving. The importance of physical activity stays the same, it is the amount and the type of activity that changes (although it doesn’t have to). Housework and walks up to an hour a day do wonders for a healthy spine and gut function, while the additional exercise of at least 20 minutes is a bonus to keep the muscle mass nice and strong. Supporting the body with the activity will keep your mind busy, helping with any possible mental health issue, since the activities raise serotonin levels. It is good to be active after the meals so that the chewed food and the gases can be transported through the body and all the components digested successfully.
Power of rest
The older body is like a child’s body in the sense that it needs a rest after a heightened period of activity. That nice nap after lunch and running around with grandchildren – take it! Even short periods of rest help the heart and brain to recuperate and your muscles surely do appreciate the warm and soft sofa. If you have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor to find the underlying cause. Causes of insomnia can include inactivity during the day, too much caffeine, or another condition like sleep apnea.
Self-care
The stress of society can be overwhelming. Climate changes, global pandemics, and inflation are a lot to take in, especially if you have another major concern. That is the reason more to pay attention to yourself and your needs. Stay in contact with family, friends, have a group activity with someone at least twice a week, engage in new hobbies and new technologies – even babies like to tap the colourful screen! Give yourself as much time as you need for fun, leisure and laugh. Constant changes do not have to be scary, but exciting! Your time on this planet is yours only, so why not spend it lovingly in your community?
