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We spend the vast majority of our adult lives telling children and grandchildren that they can do anything. But we often forget that that same advice applies to us, as well. If you are looking to make changes, you should know that it’s never too late. Here are a few healthy habits you can adopt starting today, no matter how many birthdays you’ve seen.
Ease pain associated with aging.
Many seniors struggle with chronic pain. This often stems from issues, such as arthritis, that can’t be cured. Fortunately, there are treatments. Bob & Brad recommends TENS treatment, which the Arthritis Foundation also suggests for arthritis pain. TENS units are not overly expensive and can reduce pain intensity by up to 50%. In addition to electrical stimulation, stretching and exercising can help reduce the perception of pain. Talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine.
Clear negativity from your life.
Negativity stems from many different causes. One is living in a home full of tension. If you have adult children or grandchildren living with you, you may find that your space feels small and cramped. To combat this, open windows and spend a day cleaning and decluttering. Having a fresh environment can reduce complaining and create a happier home for everyone.
When negativity comes from within, think about your situation differently, have a cup of tea in a quiet room, or simply write your feelings down and rip them up. These simple actions can help you reframe your thoughts and opinions and may lead to a more positive mindset.
Manage your medications.
If you take prescriptions or supplements, ask your physician or pharmacist to evaluate your current lineup for potential interactions. Many benign medications can have unintentional side effects. Antihistamines, for example, can cause grogginess, which might exacerbate developing mobility issues. Even the ibuprofen you take for a headache may put you at risk of a stroke or heart attack, according to Harvard University.
Stay social.
There are so many reasons to maintain an active social life in your older years, which may be the reason why there are so many senior centers across the country. A lack of socialization will bolster cognitive decline and can lead to depression. Having a strong network of peers, however, will lead to a better quality of life and may also keep you more active as you engage in physical hobbies, such as walking or exercising, together.
See the dentist.
A great smile is something to be proud of, but your oral health is much more than aesthetics. As we get older, we may experience issues, such as dry mouth, gum disease, or tooth sensitivity — all of which can make it more difficult to care for our teeth. Sadly, these issues can have an impact on your emotional and physical health. See your dentist regularly, and, if you wear dentures, have these evaluated at each visit for fit and integrity. Make plans to see your dentist at least twice each year for a cleaning and checkup.
Reaching your Golden Years is an accomplishment to be proud of. What it is not, however, is an excuse to give up on your physical and emotional health. The above can help you maintain both of these so that you can live the life you deserve during your retirement. And remember, if you want to instill healthy values in your children and grandchildren, you have to model healthy habits for as long as they are watching.
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