Healthy Aging

The American Academy of Ophthalmology originally kicked off Healthy Aging Month as a time to encourage older adults to keep their vision healthy with regular eye exams. It is now used more broadly to promote ways that people can stay healthy as they age, which helps to bring awareness to our elderly.

Older adults are at higher risk for chronic health problems like diabetes, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, 1 in 3 older adults fall each year. Falls are a leading cause of injury for this age group. Physical activity can help older adults prevent both chronic disease and fall-related injuries.

Older adults are also more likely to go to the hospital for some infectious diseases — including pneumonia. Pneumonia is a leading cause of death for this group. Making sure older adults get preventive care, including vaccines to protect against the flu and pneumonia, can help them stay healthy.

As you get older, you can take steps to stay healthy and independent. It’s important to:

• Keep your body and mind active.

Exercise increases mental capacity, and physical activity has been directly linked to slowing the process of mental decline. When you are physically active, every part of your body, including the brain, receives more blood flow. Blood flow encourages cell growth and improves healing.

• Choose healthy foods.

Obtain nutrients needed by the body such as potassium, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B₁₂, minerals, and dietary fiber. Also strive to meet your individual caloric and nutrition needs to maintain energy levels and reduce risks or injury.

• Get enough sleep.

This will help you get sick less often, stay at a healthy weight, lower your risk for serious health problems like heart disease, reduce stress and improve your mood, think more clearly, and help you get along better with people.

• Talk to your doctor about any health concerns.

Write down a list of questions and concerns before any appointments. Consider bringing a close friend or family member with you. Take notes about what the doctor says, or ask a friend or family member to take notes for you. Staying on top of your health can help prevent any major problems from arising.

• Take steps to prevent falls.

Stay active, get your eye sight checked often and regularly, know the side effects of any medications, get enough sleep, stand up slowly, know your limits, and use an assistive device to steady you as you walk.

Remember, it’s never too late to make healthy changes in your life.

 

Brought to you by Samaritan Senior Care a family owned Home Care provider in the Meridian / Boise Area. We believe in taking care of our clients in their own home, allowing them to enjoy the freedom and comfort only their home can bring. We believe in a holistic approach, which means we help them complete all the things necessary for daily life plus we make sure they’re able to enjoy their favorite hobby or activity, this greatly increases their quality of life and mental well being. Contact us today for a free consultation, we look forward to meeting you!