Did you know that happy seniors practice great habits? Did you know that healthy aging family members live longer, too? There are many things you can do to help aging family members stay as happy and healthy as possible in their golden years. This article will give you some helpful tips on how to help make their retirement the best it can be! Here’s how to help them be happier and healthier today!
Prioritize Physical Fitness
Aging adults are prone to many health issues, and one way they can help their overall health is by getting regular exercise. Exercise has been shown to improve mood, give us more energy, build muscle and increase strength. If you don’t already practice an everyday fitness routine, now is an ideal time to start (there are many classes for aging adults). Even if you can only walk for 15 minutes each day, it will still help lower your risk of heart disease and boost your metabolism. And always make sure to have water nearby when exercising in warm weather, so you don’t become dehydrated!
Have a Laugh
Sure, we all want to be taken seriously at work. But a good laugh is just as important. According to psychologists, laughter releases endorphins—powerful chemicals that can boost your mood and even help you live longer. So, make it a point to have some fun every day at work. Even if it’s something simple, like smiling at your colleague or telling an off-color joke to break up the monotony of meetings, you’ll reap enormous rewards when it comes to productivity and happiness.
Stay Connected with Loved Ones
Staying in touch with family and friends will keep you happy. Not only do social connections help to ward off depression, but they can also aid in your overall health. Studies have shown that seniors who remain connected to their communities live longer, happier lives. If you’re spending more time on Facebook than chatting with your loved ones, it might be time to schedule some real-life get-togethers instead. This is a fun way to spend time with friends while helping yourself feel happier!
Discover a New Hobby
People believe that hobbies are for children and young adults. After all, it’s a well-known fact that aging family members have too much to do and there isn’t time for play! But research shows that engaging in activities unrelated to work is beneficial for physical and mental health as we age. This also means that hobbies can be powerful when fighting chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. By engaging in new and exciting pursuits, you have an active life into your 80s, 90s, and beyond.
Exercise
Whether it’s low-impact yoga or a daily walk, exercise is crucial for your mental and physical health. Regular physical activity can decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve your outlook on life, increase self-esteem, and boost energy levels. It’s no wonder 80 percent of people with depression are physically inactive. Make exercise part of your life as soon as possible. Not only will you feel better both mentally and physically-you but will also live longer!
See Your Doctor
Even if you’re happy, healthy, and mobile, see your doctor for a yearly checkup. It’s easy to get caught up in our busy lives and put off medical appointments, but regular checkups are as important for aging family members as they are for younger people. Annual checkups help keep you healthier longer by finding diseases and conditions that might otherwise go undetected in aging adults. Checkups can also uncover risks or health behaviors that could be putting your long-term health at risk.
