Taking good care of ourselves becomes increasingly important as we age, so keeping a close eye on how we feel and paying attention to our bodies is crucial for optimal health. If you’re like many seniors, you may have one or more chronic conditions like arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes, which require ongoing management. This is where preventative healthcare comes in.
Preventative healthcare is essential for staying as healthy and active as possible throughout your life.
What is Preventative Care?
Preventative care refers to measures taken to prevent illness or detect and treat a disease early before it becomes more serious or life-threatening. It’s especially important for seniors because our immune systems weaken with age, making us more susceptible to infections and chronic illnesses. Preventative care includes:
- Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider
- Routine screenings
- Vaccinations
- Healthy lifestyle choices
Tips for Healthy Aging
If you’re looking for ways to stay healthy as a senior, you’re in luck. We have some great tips to help you on your way!
1. Exercise: Exercise has many health benefits, both physically and mentally. If it’s been awhile since you exercised, you may want to start with the following:
- Striving for 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week
- Starting with walking, swimming, or cycling
- Participating in activities like yoga or stretching and strengthening classes, especially if you have mobility issues
2. Eat a Healthy Diet: Filling your plate full of food items that are packed with vitamins and nutrients is an essential component to staying healthy. A nutrient-rich, well-balanced diet can help you do the following:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Lower your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes
- Improve your energy levels
To ensure you’re maintaining a well-balanced diet, be sure to include:
- Lots of fruits and vegetables
- Plenty of whole grains
- Proteins
Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of alcohol.
3. Get Regular Check-Ups: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help detect and treat health problems before they become more serious. Schedule regular screenings for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and cancer.
4. Manage Chronic Conditions: If you have a chronic condition like arthritis or diabetes, it’s important to work with your healthcare providers to help you manage the condition. Healthcare management may include:
- Taking medications
- Making dietary changes
- Participating in physical therapy
5. Stay Socially Active: Maintaining social connections with friends and family can help boost your mental and emotional well-being.
- Join a social group or club
- Volunteer in your community
- Participate in a hobby you enjoy
6. Get Enough Sleep: Sleep is SO important for good health; seniors often need more sleep than younger adults.
- Between 7-9 hours of sleep per night is best for most people
- Good sleep hygiene is key
- Limiting screen time before bed can really help
- Keeping lights turned down as the evening progresses can help set the tone for a restful night
Preventative care is essential if you’re a senior and want to maintain good health and quality of life. By following these tips for healthy aging, you can reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
For more information on preventative care as you age, or to learn how you or your loved one can get the senior healthcare support you deserve, visit us online at Companion Healthcare or call us at 405-293-9000. We’re happy to help!
