No matter how old you are, taking care of your health should be your top priority. But if you are a senior, it’s even more essential to take special care of your health because your immune system is not as strong as it was when you were young. Therefore, you must take extra steps to prevent illnesses and strengthen your immune system. Aging involves both positive and negative changes. If you understand what your aging body needs, you can enjoy getting older. Taking steps to maintain your health in old age can help prevent the body changes that usually catch you by surprise.
Here are some tips for seniors to stay healthy
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Those extra pounds you carry can take a toll on you if you are a senior. However, ideally, your weight should lie within the range that’s considered right according to your height. Extra weight increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease in seniors. Use the BMI (Body Mass Index) calculator to figure out what your weight should be according to your height. Eating right and keeping active are the key to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
2. Undergo health Screenings and Immunization Regularly
By age 50, both men and women should stay up to date with preventive health screenings. That is because the older you get, the more vulnerable you are to develop serious illnesses. Women should undergo mammography screening at least once a year for breast cancer and men should get checked for prostate cancer by the age of 50. Therefore, seniors should make annual wellness visits and undergo screening tests annually. Preventive screenings and vaccinations are necessary to prevent and catch a serious disease at the early stage before it gets worse. Visit https://www.iselect.com.au/health-insurance/ and compare a range of private health insurance policies in Australia.
3. Eat Well and Stay Active
It is necessary to eat healthy, nutritious food, and do some physical activity regularly as you get older. Join a gym that offers programs for seniors. Dietary changes and exercise help prevent and control high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and osteoporosis. Eat healthy food in the right amount and do something you enjoy. Physical activity helps you maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, promote cardiovascular health, and feel healthy.
4. Manage Stress:
Stress is a big enemy of your mental and physical health. Stress increases the production of a stress hormone called cortisol in your body. Increased levels of cortisol disrupt your immune system and other functions of your body. You should not let stress affect your health and learn to manage stress. Make time for fun and socialization. Take up an exciting hobby, explore relaxing, and do enjoyable activities to reduce stress.
5. Prevent Falls
You become more vulnerable to falls as you get older. Falls can sometimes lead to serious injuries that can take longer to heal if you are older. Remove throw rugs and loose carpets from your floor. Keep your passages clear of clutter and electrical cords. Use night lights in the bathrooms and hallways. Wear shoes that give better grip and support to reduce the risk of falling.