Aging Gracefully Is A Choice and Here Is Why!

At 54, Michele Obama continues to steal our hearts with her grace and charm. Ellen DeGeneres, 60, is one of the nation’s favorite icons and Oprah continues to rule the world at 64. All of this just goes to show, age is quite definitely just a number.

Getting older is commonly associated with despair and disease. On the contrary, though, aging well and healthy isn’t as difficult as you’d think. Yes, aging gracefully is a choice and one that you make for yourself.

The decisions you make throughout your life, your habits and your lifestyle are all determinants of how well you age through your senior years. The smarter your choices in regard to your mind, body and spirit, the more gracefully you age.

If your elderly family member has never paid attention to making healthy choices in life, well don’t worry, it’s never too late to start.

Here are some of the measures they can still take to make sure they’re healthy and happy:

Reduce Stress

Putting a full stop to all that stress is definitely the easiest way to age gracefully. Strain and stress are as taxing physically as they are emotionally. Physically, stress takes a toll on blood pressure, sleeping patterns and appetite. Additionally, the most common coping mechanisms for stress—like smoking, binge eating and drinking—are also extremely unhealthy.

While reducing stress is definitely easier said than done, what you can do is try to fight stress by helping your senior adopt healthier habits. Increasing their water intake, exercising frequently and keeping them busy with productive hobbies are all effective ways of fighting stress.

Recent studies show that most forms of physical exercise, from aerobics to yoga, are great stress busters. Plus, exercise is also a great way of keeping those muscles fit for healthy aging.

Sleep Well

They don’t call it beauty sleep for no reason! Ever notice those puffy eyes, heavy eye bags and dull, lifeless skin just after one night of lack of good sleep? Don’t let that accumulate.

Help your senior get into the habit of going to bed at a consistent hour every night, in a dark room. Aim for eight to ten hours of uninterrupted sleep. This is vital for their overall health in the long run.

Balanced Diet

Ensuring that they maintain a balanced intake of sufficient vitamins, antioxidants and minerals through a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables is definitely something that will help them age much more gracefully.

Having a healthy diet not only helps keep their skin fresh but also stabilizes weight, keeps them mentally sharp and much more energetic.

Proper nutrition is also essential to help their body maintain its immunity and fight various illnesses such as heart problems and diabetes.

Reduce Sodium Intake

Decreasing intake of sodium is also essential in order to keep blood pressure levels from shooting. Increase in blood pressure can easily lead to more fatal issues like strokes and hypertension conditions.

Replacing sodium with fresh herbs and spices would definitely help them stay healthier. Also, avoid processed foods like frozen meals, soft drinks and instant mix packets as they are also high on sodium content.

Hydrate

Our bodies are fifty to sixty percent water based, hence it is imperative to have enough water to make sure that your body functions at its best. Water helps with digestion and flushes out toxins. It is also the easiest way to maintain that natural glow. Sufficient intake of water keeps the skin looking fresh and helps keep a safe distance from wrinkles and fine lines.

You could also prepare some water-based fruits and vegetables like grapes, melons and cucumbers to keep them hydrated.

Exercise

Pick any form of exercise, as simple as walking or as complex as acrobats. Just as long as they’re moving, making sure their muscles are mobile, you’re good to go.

Try to get at least twenty minutes of exercise a day to help them feel more flexible, energetic and positive. Exercising has a direct impact on overall health and wellbeing.

Plus, studies show that physical exercise actually slows down aging at the cellular level. What more could you ask for?

Strong Friendships

Emotional and mental health is just as imperative as your physical health. Hence, it is always important to help them develop a strong and healthy network of supportive friends. Social interaction is super helpful in maintaining positivity and keeping their mental health at peace.

You could help them join a church, enjoy some recreational classes or just get some fresh air.

 

Growing old can get lonely and tiring. If you’re looking for any advice or support regarding senior placement services and assisted living facilities, our elder care consultants in Kansas City would be more than happy to help. Get in touch with our senior living advisors for a free consultation today and help your loved ones stay happy and healthy as they grow old!