Growing older does not mean life has nothing to offer. Seniors can still plan and set goals, which provide a sense of purpose and help them maintain a positive outlook on life. Here are seven healthy goals older adults should consider pursuing.
1. Exercise Regularly
Ongoing physical activity is essential for maintaining health. There are activities and exercises older adults can do regardless of whether they have arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or another condition. Walking, stretching, tai chi, and water aerobics are all examples of low-impact activities that protect weight-bearing joints from stress while conditioning the heart and skeletal muscles. Active seniors might consider hiking, cycling, or participating in a sport.
Seniors who need help exercising should consider professional in-home care. Anchorage home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
2. Follow a Nutritious Diet
The body and mind require several essential nutrients to function properly. The Health in Aging Foundation recommends older adults should include five servings of fruits and vegetables in their daily diets. Omega-3 fatty acids should also be consumed at least once each week. However, seniors must not take in more calories than they burn or weight gain may become an issue.
3. Work on Increasing Balance and Strength
Reduced mobility and reaction time increase the risk of falls, which are one the most common reasons for injuries in the senior population. By increasing balance, flexibility, and overall strength, older adults are less likely to become injured. Seniors should evaluate potential hazards associated with certain medications and pitfalls in and around the home to reduce the risk of falling.
4. Play Brain Games
Research indicates older adults can boost their cognitive health by regularly playing brain games. On a daily basis, seniors should make a point of reading, working a puzzle, or playing some type of game requiring problem-solving or strategy skills. They should change the challenges each day to keep the mind fresh, and they should consider doing something completely different such as learning to play a musical instrument or taking a college class.
5. Sleep Well
Functioning physically and mentally each day is not easy without getting an adequate amount of sleep. The National Sleep Foundation reports that seniors need seven to eight hours of restful sleep each night. Seniors should avoid stimulating activities late at night, resist the urge to nap during the day, and reduce caffeine intake if necessary.
6. Socialize More Often
Being social helps seniors stay in touch with what is going on in their neighborhood and the outside world. Seniors should try to attend at least one social activity once a week and visit with family members more often.
For families living in Anchorage, AK, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
7. Use Free Time Wisely
Once retired, some seniors might enjoy relaxing and not having much to do. However, in time, boredom sets in, which can lead to depression. Seniors should consider volunteering or starting a hobby that might prove financially beneficial.
Some seniors find it difficult to pursue healthy hobbies. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits, consider hiring a professional elderly caregiver. Anchorage families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide dedicated and compassionate in-home caregivers who are trained in our holistic Balanced Care Method, which was designed to encourage seniors to exercise often, eat nutritious foods, maintain strong social ties, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. To learn about our premier in-home care plans, call us at (907) 770-0907 today.