Healthy Aging

Aging gracefully and productively has its challenges. With age comes an increase in chronic health concerns as well. As many as 80 percent of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, including hypertension, diabetes, arthritis and dementia. Those can lead to challenges with everyday living for as many as 1 in 3 seniors. That’s why staying healthy and active is so important. Here are tips from the CDC for remaining well, active and independent.

Eat and Drink Healthy

A healthy diet is great preventive medicine. It gives our bodies the nutrients and fuel they need not just to stay active but also to ward off illness. That’s why it’s important to make healthy food choices. Drink lots of water and eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low-fat dairy products.

Keep Moving

An active lifestyle isn’t just healthy, it can help prevent, delay and manage a number of chronic diseases. It also can improve balance and stamina, reduce the risk of falls and even bolster brain health. It doesn’t take a ton of activity either. Walking 22-30 minutes a day (150 minutes a week) is a great form of moderate exercise. And plan to do some muscle-strengthening activity at least a couple of times a week, too. Even carrying groceries is good for strength-building.

Don't Use Tobacco

The negative health effects of smoking – or using any tobacco products for that matter – are well known. If you use tobacco, one of the best things you can do for your long-term health, and that of those around you, is to stop. It’s not easy, but it is possible, and there’s free help available by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

Get Regular Checkups

It’s smart to visit your doctor when you’re sick, but it’s just as important to check in with them when you’re not. Well visits or regular check-ups are essential to prevent diseases, catch them early and keep you healthy. So make sure you’re getting preventive health check-ups at least once a year.

Know Your Family History

Part of effective preventive health care is understanding your family health history. It tells you and your doctor a great deal about conditions you may have inherited and those you should at least be looking out for. So know your history and share it with your doctor, who can help you take steps to prevent chronic diseases or catch them early.

Be Aware of Brain Changes

Everyone’s brain changes as they age. We all have a hard time remembering things sometimes, but losing special awareness or the ability to reason or communicate clearly are not a normal part of aging. If you notice issues like these or have questions about memory or brain health, be sure to see your doctor. Otherwise, use things like puzzles and brain games to challenge yourself as you age and keep your mind sharp.

There are lots of amazing things that come with aging, but it can be a challenge at times, too. If you take these tips to heart, follow your doctors’ orders and stay healthy and active, it can one of the richest and most rewarding times of your life.