Aging is a natural part of life. And as we age, it’s important to be cognizant of our habits and practices to ensure we’re aging as healthily as possible. “Healthy aging” will look different for everyone; Heritage Pointe is here to support you on your individual aging journey.
Our residents enjoy a wide array of amenities and personalized services to keep them active and independent — such as a full-service dining room; fitness center with group classes, personal training and on-site physical therapy; swimming pool; community room; creative arts studio; music room and more.
What is Healthy Aging?
As people age, risks of chronic disease, mental decline and health emergencies increase. Some of these risks are uncontrollable. Consciously maintaining a healthy lifestyle is foundational to aging well.
This blog will explore three key areas of healthy aging and how they play a role in staying healthy as you age. We’ll discuss:
- Physical health
- Mental or social emotional health
- Cognitive health
How to Maintain Physical Health While Aging
The importance of physical health to aging cannot be understated. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), physical health helps seniors prevent chronic disease, maintain functional abilities and supports positive mental health. Your physical health also impacts your heart health, making it even more crucial.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends 150 minutes of physical activity per week — or just over 20 minutes a day — with specific recommendations for strength activities, balance exercises and aerobic activity that gets your heart beat up.
Even small sessions of physical activity have health benefits. Not sure where to start? Here are physical activity ideas for seniors:
- Take walks
- Try a low-impact exercise class
- Swim or practice water aerobics
- Take a yoga class or try a yoga video at home
- Dance along to a video or attend a dance class
- Ride a bike
- Visit a fitness center
- Play tennis or pickleball
- Go golfing (or miniature golfing!)
- Go for a low-incline hike
Your diet is an equally important aspect of maintaining physical health. The National Institute on Aging has simple tips to eat healthfully, such as eating enough protein, adding fruits and vegetables to your plate, reducing sodium intake and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
How to Maintain Mental and Social Emotional Health While Aging
Mental health and social emotional wellness is important at every age, especially as we age. As you experience changes in your life it’s normal to feel grief, social isolation and loneliness. But, experiencing these emotions persistently can lead to mental illness, such as depression or anxiety. These are not normal parts of aging, and they should not be challenges you face alone. If you feel persistent emotions of depression or anxiety, see your health care provider for specific care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends social connection activities to combat social isolation and loneliness to improve mental health, life satisfaction and quality of life.
To stay connected, try:
- Visting with friends or family
- Joining volunteer groups
- Finding local support groups
- Attending community events
How to keep a healthy brain
Preventing cognitive disease and disfunctions is of high importance to many seniors to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia. As mentioned previously, age, genetics and family history can’t be altered, but actions can be taken to keep your cognitive abilities sharp.
The CDC draws benefits between physical health and brain health — they emphasize staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, maintaining a healthy blood pressure level, getting enough sleep, managing blood sugar and refraining from smoking as beneficial practices.
Your brain is like a muscle and exercising it is important. The beautiful thing about a healthy brain is any new or mentally demanding activity is exercise. Spend time trying something new, such as reading about a new topic, trying a new instrument, learning a new crafting technique or card game is key to keeping your mind engaged.
Heritage Pointe is proud to assist our residents on their aging journey. Whether it’s healthy food or group activities, we’re ready to provide the best care. To learn more about life at Heritage Pointe, contact our team today.