Older adults who want to increase their chances for healthful aging should use common sense and follow six simple steps to protect their bodies and brains.
Step 1
Develop a healthy attitude. People in their mid-60s have a good chance to live another 10-20 years. It is never too late to begin taking care of your body and brain. It can make the difference between a decade of good health and a decade of disability. Remember that a sense of humor will lift your spirits and strengthen you body.
Step 2
Stay trim with a healthful diet and physical activity. Just 30 minutes of physical activity per day will reduce the risk of hospitalization due to hardening of the arteries and also protects against osteoporosis, falls and injuries. Obesity increases health problems such as diabetes and makes it more difficult to enjoy physical activity. Older adults may develop vitamin or nutritional deficiencies. Ask you doctor about taking calcium supplements to avoid osteoporosis or a multivitamin to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need to stay healthy.
Step 3
Maintain social contacts and stay psychologically fit. Loneliness is deadly for older people. Isolated people have higher rates of health problems and disability. Depression, although very common in older adults, is not a normal part of aging. It is a biological brain disorder and can be treated with medication.
Step 4
Limit alcohol to 1 ounce per day and quit smoking, if you do. Abuse of alcohol is a major issue with older adults. Alcohol increases the risk of falls and damages the liver, heart, muscles and nerves. By eliminating smoking, you will feel better and may avoid tobacco-related health problems.
Step 5
Find a primary care doctor you trust and who likes older patients. Make a list of questions about your health concerns or side effects of medications. Ask your pharmacist to check for duplicate prescriptions or drug interactions.
Step 6
Keep your soul healthy. Older people with an active spiritual life have fewer health problems and suffer from less disabling illnesses.