For many seniors, healthy living is something that needs to be considered on a daily basis. From eating right to getting enough exercise, there are many things to think about in terms of keeping the body and mind healthy. And while every senior has specific needs they have to address when it comes to their health, it’s important to remember that there are lots of options for living right. You can branch out a bit and try new things, exploring activities like biking and yoga, rather than sticking to one type of exercise. Having a variety of foods on your plate will help you get all the nutrients you need without having to worry about aggravating a health condition, like diabetes.
There’s no one right way to live healthfully. Just about everyone has options that will allow them to stay fit — both mentally and physically — while staying safe at the same time. You might talk to your doctor about the best ways to get started if you have an existing health issue and keep him updated on any changes you make to your diet or exercise regimen.
Keep reading for some great tips on how to live right during your senior years.
Preventative Care Is Important
For all seniors, preventative care is essential in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This might mean wearing sturdy, rubber-soled shoes to prevent falls around the house and to protect the ankles, or finding an exercise routine that is safe enough to do every day without fear of suffering an injury. In some cases, you may be able to modify another routine to suit your needs, such as doing yoga in the water or with the aid of a chair.
Get Educated About Your Insurance Policy
Medicare is a wonderful resource for seniors, but it only covers specific treatments and periods of time, so it’s crucial that you’re informed about your policy. Things like long-term care may require you to pay out of pocket, meaning if you’re injured or ill and need a stay in the hospital or nursing facility, you either won’t be covered or you’ll only be covered for a certain number of days. Go over your policy and talk to an agent if you have any questions.
Take Your Health Needs Into Consideration
If you have existing health issues, it’s important to take that into consideration when starting a new diet or exercise routine. For instance, many people living with diabetes struggle with blood circulation due to nerve damage, and this can cause all sorts of problems with the feet. You might notice a tingling feeling like pins and needles, or you may have trouble feeling injuries, which can lead to serious infections. Keep the circulation strong in your feet by doing cardiovascular exercises such as swimming or aerobics, and consider wearing compression socks.
Change Your Diet
Diet can be very important for seniors, especially if diabetes is present. Controlling your blood sugar and even losing weight can be a lot easier when you remove refined sugars and carbs–such as those found in white bread, pasta, and white rice–from your diet. You can also add dark, leafy greens, lean proteins, nuts and berries, and healthy fats like those found in avocados. Talk to your doctor before making any big changes, however.
Living healthy encompasses so many things, from the foods you eat to the amount of stress you take on in a given day. Reduce stressful feelings by learning how to meditate or by taking time for yourself each day, and make an effort to include activities in your daily routine that will keep you safe as well as healthy.
Kevin Wells of seniordiabetic.com
kevin@seniordiabetic.com
Written for Balanced Habits, LLC
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