It can be daunting to search the internet for information on diet, exercise, lifestyle, and other topics. This guide is a compilation of the best advice to help you make smart choices about a healthy lifestyle, exercise effectively, and comfortable living.
The best foods to include in your diet
Whole grains – Experts believe entire grains are an excellent food choice for seniors. They are high in fiber, which prevents constipation. Whole-grain foods can also lower bad cholesterol and protect against certain cancers. Look out for grains-based foods with folic acid to boost your levels of heart-harmful substances.
Water – As the body can produce thirsty feelings with age, seniors need to ensure that they are hydrated. Seniors who do not drink enough water may experience dangerously low blood pressure, impaired renal function, and chronic constipation. Experts recommend that seniors drink eight 8-ounce glasses of H2O per day.
Best Exercise
Walking – Studies show that this simple exercise has significant health benefits. Walking improves physical function and aerobic capacity. Walking doesn’t require any special equipment or training. You can modify it to suit your needs, whether you’re a senior or a convalescent patient who prefers a slow pace. Walking is a great way to meet new people and has a surprising anti-aging effect.
Weight training – The body loses almost 1/3 of its muscle each year after the age of 30, making muscle-building an essential part of any exercise program. More than 100 clinical trials showed that exercise machines, free weights, or exercise bands made a significant difference in the strength of seniors. Training also helped seniors perform everyday tasks essential to independent living. This includes unpacking groceries and getting out of bed. Participants also reported less pain from arthritis.
Tai Chi – This series of exercises was first used as a martial art in Ancient China. It can be easily modified to suit seniors with disabilities or pain. Regular practice can increase spine flexibility. This can make it easier for your dog to reach high shelves or fish out of tight spots. According to research, Tai Chi improves muscle strength, balance, and cardiorespiratory function. It’s a great exercise for all ages.
Best Lifestyle
There are many lifestyle options available, whether you don’t want to deal with the responsibility of maintaining a home or have a medical condition that makes it difficult to do daily tasks alone.
Independent living – This option allows for a high degree of independence and includes support services like transportation, meals, housekeeping, and meal preparation. Independent living communities also offer social events.
Assisted Living – This type allows the individual to retain some independence while still having access to medical professionals that can manage medication, personal care, and other emergencies. Each facility offers different living arrangements. Some offer individual rooms, others apartments. Others have shared quarters.
A continuing care retirement community – This option is also known as a “life care community.” It offers a variety of care levels, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care, all from one convenient location. These communities usually have a monthly fee and an entry fee. However, residents are provided with all the amenities necessary to live a happy life.
Contact Gardens Care Senior Living to learn more.
