At HonorHealth, we want you to age gracefully. While age is just a number, here are some tips on how you can stay in control over your physical and emotional well-being as you become older.
Exercise
Regular physical activity can lower your risk of age-related diseases and enhance your overall well-being, ultimately extending your lifespan. Consider engaging in exercises such as aerobic workouts (to enhance your heart and lung endurance), resistive exercises (to promote muscle strength and endurance) and stretching activities (to improve flexibility and balance/stability).
Regular exercise can:
- Decrease your risk of heart disease
- Lower your blood pressure
- Help control your blood sugar
- Improve strength and balance
- Fight off depression
- Keep your brain sharp
- Improve your sleep
Please check with your primary care provider before starting any type of exercise or physical activity.
Mindful eating
“As you get older, you eat less than you used to because your metabolism decreases as you age,” explains Kari Johnson, PhD, RN, HonorHealth Longevity Institute. “Good nutrition gives you energy, helps control your weight and lowers your risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.”
Think about everything you eat or drink to help you make healthy choices. Here are some recommendations to help you along the way:
- Plan meals and snacks.
- Fill up on fruit, veggies, proteins and whole grains.
- Enjoy your favorite foods in moderation.
It’s important that you talk to your primary care doctor about your dietary needs as you age. You may need a diet with limited salt, increased fiber or fewer calories. Find a doctor.
Drink enough liquids
Some people lose their sense of thirst as they age. It’s important for your body to have plenty of fluids each day – especially water – so you don’t get dehydrated. Water helps you digest food, absorb nutrients and get rid of unused waste.
Cut back on alcohol
As you age, alcohol can cause dehydration and keep your medications from working the way they should. It also increases your risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, sexually transmitted diseases or getting injured from a fall.
About the HonorHealth Longevity Institute
The HonorHealth Longevity Institute is dedicated to advancing the care of older adults. We offer various education classes, resources and wellness tips to help with aging.
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