black retired couple on the computer and laughing while looking at a piece of paper

The Ultimate Guide to Healthy Aging Tips As You Grow Old

4 Wellness Tips for Your Golden Years

Getting older often has a negative connotation associated with it, but PrimeHealth Asheville is here to help you understand that aging does not have to be a challenging or bleak part of our lives! With the proper knowledge and care, aging can be a smooth and enjoyable process.

By following simple tips and making a few lifestyle changes, you can age gracefully and enjoy your golden years to the fullest. Let us be your go-to resource for healthy aging and discuss the best strategies to maintain your health as you age.

1. Keep Up With Physical Activity

Even if you were not active in your younger years, it is never too late to start exercising! The advantages of regular physical activity are endless, including reducing the risk of:

Furthermore, exercise can improve mental health by relieving stress, improving sleep quality, and increasing energy levels.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults aged 65 or older get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. This can be achieved by participating in 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise five days per week. If you've never worked out before, you might want to begin with 10 minutes daily and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable.

There are many different types of exercises that you can do to meet the CDC's recommendations! Some examples include:

  • Walking
  • Swimming
  • Biking
  • Light jogging
  • Dancing
  • Tai Chi

Talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise routine to ensure it is safe for you.

2. Make Socialization a Priority

As we age, it is common for our social circles to become smaller. We may retire from our jobs, our children move away, and our friends may relocate or pass away. As social isolation can result in depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment, it is imperative to make an effort to socialize and maintain relationships with others.

There are many ways to socialize, even if you cannot get out of the house frequently. You can join a club or group that meets regularly, such as a book club, gardening club, or walking group! Or, you may decide to volunteer your time to a local organization or charity. If you cannot leave your home often, you can stay connected with friends and family by phone, email, social media, or video chat.

3. Rest, Rest, Rest!

Our sleep habits frequently alter as we age; we may have problems falling asleep or staying asleep all night. It is vital to ensure you are getting enough rest, as lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, moodiness, weight gain, and cognitive decline.

There are a few things that you can do to help improve your sleep. First, establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible. It would help if you also created a relaxing bedtime routine to help wind down at the end of the day. Before bed, stay away from coffee and alcohol, and make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Finally, avoid working or using electronic devices in bed.

4. Schedule Routine Medical Check-ups

It is important to visit your doctor regularly, even if you feel healthy! Your medical team can screen for potential health problems and catch any issues early on. They can also help you develop a plan to manage any chronic conditions that you may have.

For adults aged 65 years and older, you should visit your doctor at least once per year. You may need to go more frequently if you have a chronic condition or are taking multiple medications. Based on your unique needs, your doctor can assist you in deciding how often you should schedule checkups.

In addition to visiting your doctor, you should also get routine screenings for potential health problems. Screenings can help catch problems early when they are most treatable. The types of screenings you need will depend on your age, health history, and family history. Your medical team can advise which screenings are appropriate for you.

Making Your Senior Health a Priority at PrimeHealth Asheville

At PrimeHealth Asheville, we understand that your health is a top priority as you age. We offer various concierge medical services to help you stay healthy and active as you age!

Our lifestyle counseling services can help you develop healthy habits and make positive lifestyle changes, while our diabetes management program can help you keep your blood sugar under control. We also offer heart health services that can help you lower your risk of heart disease, and our routine checkup services can help you catch any health problems early on!

Want to learn more about how we can be a guiding hand during your golden years? Call (828) 705-3520 or fill out our form online today. We look forward to serving you!

Categories