16 Apr Wellness in Retirement: Physical Health
It’s no secret your body changes as you age. But, those changes don’t have to limit your independence. The key to healthy aging (and aging well!) is a healthy lifestyle. It’s easy to get caught up in the luxuries of retirement, but physical health still matters – in fact, we’d say it matters even more as you age! Here are some tips for a great foundation for physical health and wellness.
Stay Active, Sweat A Little Every Day
Do something that gets you up and going every day! Exercise – for endurance, strength, flexibility, or balance – isn’t just for losing weight. Regular exercise is a major factor in aging gracefully. It helps you fight off disease and chronic illnesses, improves strength and flexibility, reduces stress, and more. Keeping your body healthy through regular exercise (in addition to a healthy diet!) is crucial to your retirement lifestyle. Consider low-impact aerobic classes, water aerobics, yoga, or even just going for regular walks or jogs around your community with a friend or neighbor!
Eat Well
Eating well is just as important as staying active. The two go hand in hand, so it’s important to fuel your body well! If you live in a retirement community where you are provided three square meals a day, be sure to take advantage of the convenience! Eating healthy is easier than before when you just need to decide what to order – no cooking on your part required (isn’t retirement a beautiful thing?)! A balanced, healthy diet will also provide you the vitamins and minerals needed to maintain healthy bones, and keep your mind sharp.
And, don’t forget the importance of water in your diet! Water keeps you hydrated and keeps your digestive system working well. Especially in warmer months, the elderly can be pre-disposed to dehydration and hyperthermia – staying hydrated helps your body naturally cool off.
Listen to Your Body
Maybe you joined a walking club at your retirement home, and have been waking up feeling more tired than usual. Listen to your body! It’s okay to get more sleep if you don’t feel refreshed. The same goes for if you begin having trouble hearing or seeing the numbers called at your weekly Bingo – listen to your body! It might be time for a vision or hearing check-up. Even if you are the most active senior with a strictly regimented healthy diet, there are still plenty of changes that come along with aging. Listen to your body – and see your doctor, if you have questions about changes in your physical health or lifestyle.