10 Ways to Live Your Best Life During Your Golden Years

Nearly 50% of Gen X aren’t aware that they can’t engage in the same diet or fitness regimens they could when they were younger. Most notice changes in their health and wellness around the age of 39. Another 21% are in denial about their bodies aging.

Meanwhile, 61% put off making the necessary routine changes for three to six years.

Make the most of your golden years by using these lifestyle tips for healthy, happy aging. With these tips, you can remain active and independent, even as you age.

Read on to learn more!

1. Eat Right

You are what you eat! If you want to remain healthy, active, and independent, adjust your diet. Maintain a balanced diet full of:

• Healthy fats
• Low-fat or fat-free dairy
• Lean proteins
• Whole grains
• Fruits and vegetables

Try to minimize your intake of processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. Making these dietary changes and reducing your salt intake will keep your blood pressure down.

Consider adding more anti-aging foods to your diet.

For example, watercress is a great source of manganese, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus. It’s also rich in vitamins A, C, K, B-1, and B-2. It can boost your circulation while delivering minerals to your cells.

Look for anti-aging foods that are rich in antioxidants, which fight free radicals. For example, red bell peppers, citrus fruits, and blueberries.

Consider foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as broccoli, papaya, and spinach.

For a healthy snack and source of healthy fats, try eating more nuts. Walnuts contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.

Otherwise, talk to a doctor to get your blood work done. The results will help you determine if you have a vitamin deficiency. If you do, make adjustments to your diet based on the vitamins and minerals you’re lacking.

You can also add supplements to your routine.

As a senior citizen, you’re likely taking medications as prescribed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor before adding supplements to your routine. Some medications and supplements can cause interactions if you’re not careful.

2. Exercise

Even in your old age, it’s important to remain physically fit. Exercising can reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease. It can also help you maintain your mobility.

Exercising a little each day will improve your bone health, skin health, and mood. It also reduces stress and improves sleep.

Aim for 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise a week. Choose muscle-strengthening activities using weights or resistance bands. For aerobic exercise, try cycling, dancing, swimming, and walking.

Don’t forget to soak up some sunshine. Sun exposure can help your body produce vitamin D. Protect your skin when you step outside by:

• Staying hydrated
• Getting annual skin cancer screenings
• Wearing sunscreen
• Wearing protective clothing

Consider exercising with friends to make it an enjoyable part of your routine.

3. Sleep

Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Sleep affects your mental and physical health. It can affect your skin health, too.

In fact, getting enough sleep each night can:

• Improve focus and concentration
• Lower your risk of stroke and heart disease
• Reduce stress and depression
• Reduce your risk of obesity
• Reduce inflammation

If you’re unable to fall asleep, talk to a doctor to determine if you have an underlying condition.

4. Lower Stress

Prioritize your mental health this year to keep your stress levels low. Minimizing stress can help you live and age well as a senior citizen.

You can reduce your stress levels by:

• Spending time with loved ones
• Spending time in nature
• Trying new hobbies
• Volunteering
• Meditating
• Trying yoga

If you’re still feeling stressed, talk to someone. They could help you recognize the source of your stress.

5. Cut Back

Try abandoning bad habits that affect your mental and physical health.

For example, drinking and smoking can cause premature aging. They also increase the risk of disease. Talk to a doctor to learn how to cut back.

6. Find Hobbies

Make the most of your retirement by discovering new hobbies. Discovering new, enjoyable hobbies can give your life a sense of purpose. They’ll keep you engaged with others, too.

In fact, enjoying hobbies and social activities can help you live longer and happier.

Learn to play an instrument, create art, start gardening, or explore new sports. Look for hobbies that relieve stress. For example, crafting, reading, writing, or solving puzzles.

7. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness practices can help you make the most of the present. It can also:

• Improve emotional reactions
• Lower stress
• Improve focus
• Improve memory
• Increase immune system function
• Increase relationship satisfaction

Explore activities like coloring, tai chi, yoga, and meditation. You can also use breathing exercises to remain mindful and in the moment.

8. Drink More Water

Try drinking more water to improve your brain function and energy levels. It can reduce signs of aging by keeping your skin healthy, too.

Talk to a doctor to determine how much you should drink each day. Otherwise, aim for eight 8-oz glasses or half your weight in ounces daily. Drink more water if you follow an active lifestyle.

9. Visit the Doctor

Keep up with your doctor appointments in your old age.

Your doctor can recognize symptoms before problems develop further. Ask your doctor how often you should visit for screenings and check-ups based on your age.

Don’t forget to visit the dentist. Regular cleanings and check-ups can reduce your risk of gum disease. Gum disease is linked to stroke, heart disease, and bacterial pneumonia.

10. Stay Social

Increase your life satisfaction by staying social. Explore senior living options to socialize with other senior citizens. Many senior living facilities offer fulfillment activities to keep you active and engaged.

Happy and Healthy: Make the Most of Your Golden Years

Make the most of your golden years by using these 10 health and wellness tips. Making a few adjustments to your current lifestyle can help you enjoy your retirement age. Live a happy, fulfilling life with these tips today.

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