Aging well can increase longevity for seniors and boost their mental, physical, and emotional health. As a result, they’re at lower risk for falls, infections, and other issues that can disrupt their quality of life. Take a look at some healthy aging tips your senior loved one can adopt.
Exercise
Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle can help seniors optimize their health and stay mentally engaged, which increases independence. Look for ways to keep your loved one active, such as finding opportunities to walk. For example, instead of driving to nearby parks and shops, your loved one should consider walking. Exercise can lower blood sugar levels, build muscle, and strengthen the lipid profile, which is vital to cardiovascular health.
If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, hiring a home caregiver to take over on occasion is a great option. For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Carmichael, CA, Home Care Assistance is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.
Weight Management
Obesity impacts countless people around the world, including seniors. Excessive weight gain can lead to heart problems that prevent healthy aging. Many health issues, such as diabetes, stroke, and sleep apnea, are linked to obesity. Therefore, your loved one should avoid eating foods high in fat and cholesterol and stay physically active to burn more calories.
Home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
Optimistic Outlook
Regardless of how difficult times get, seniors must maintain a positive outlook on life. Worry, fear, and regret are negative emotions that impact mental health. Aging adults who remain optimistic can increase their cognitive abilities and strengthen their relationships with family members and friends. Conversely, constant worry and fear can raise the risk of depression, heart disease, and dementia. Your loved one should take up purposeful activities to enhance his or her mood. Your parent might also find it helpful to join a senior support group.
Sunlight Exposure
Although excessive exposure to the sun could cause significant damage to the skin and increase the risk of cancer, healthy levels of sunlight exposure could help your loved one age well. Being inside all the time could prevent your parent from receiving the vitamin D needed to boost his or her mental and physical health. Safe sunlight exposure can increase the production of endorphins and keep the bones healthy in the golden years.
Regular Doctor Visits
Annual medical and dental checkups allow your loved one to be examined and receive recommendations that could lower the risk of age-related health conditions and boost his or her wellbeing. The doctor can check your loved one’s vision, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, bone health, and cognitive abilities. Biannual dental checkups could lower the risk of mouth cancer and cavities. Help your parent schedule these appointments, and make sure he or she has reliable transportation to each one.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elder care. Carmichael, CA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (916) 485-4663 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.