Many seniors struggle with the aging process. The loss of independence and declining health can oftentimes be overwhelming and scary for our elders to deal with. Several factors including loss of financial security, death of a spouse or loved one, and not being able to manage daily activities are barriers that seniors have to face as well. It is important that the family and caregivers of the resident be attentive and patient in this transition. Emotional support, as well as these tips for healthy aging, can be attributed to a better quality of life:

Nutrition 

Proper diet and nutrition are incredibly important for our seniors to maintain healthy living and help slow certain degenerative health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Increasing the amount of fruit and vegetables in the diet while decreasing salt content and fatty foods will have a tremendous impact on the health and well-being of seniors. Enjoying a variety of foods and controlling portions will not only keep people from becoming bored with the diet, but increase satiation, or the feeling of being full!

Exercise

Studies show that just as little as 30 minutes of daily exercise can improve mental cognition, heart health, decrease weight loss while decreasing anxiety and depression. Finding exercises that challenge but do not overwhelm seniors is the key; Yoga, swimming, biking, or going for a moderate paced walk are all options that can be done no matter the age or physical level. Many times, there will be cases where some seniors are not able to exercise due to physical limitations. It is important that caregivers find exercises that can suit these individuals. Merely stretching, walking, or doing light yard work can be stimulating enough exercises that keep seniors active, and mentally sharp.

Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is something that many people take for granted but the older that you become, the more important getting enough rest becomes. Most people benefit greatly from 7-9 hours of sleep per night, but it depends on each individual person. It is important to know your body and be aware of how much sleep is needed. Getting the appropriate amount of rest helps improve mental cognition and reduces stress and inflammation. These are all factors that help with the natural aging process.

Never Stop Learning

Whether it’s as simple as doing a crossword puzzle or reading the morning paper, continuing to exercise your brain is essential to healthy aging. The brain is an active muscle; and just like arms or legs, it must be engaged, or it could suffer from weakness or atrophy. Never stop the learning process. Reading, listening to music, picking up a new hobby of interest; these are all activities that continue to work the brain and keep mental cognition and decrease the chances of dementia. Embrace the aging process, and through these Amazon healthy tips, continue to live healthily.