Are you aware that roughly half of older adult women don't get enough protein? Nutrition is just one component of overall wellness, but it's easy to neglect lots of healthy lifestyle decisions as we get older. Fortunately, seniors can take control of their health during National Wellness Month.
Every August, this celebration of self-care and healthy living presents an opportunity for seniors to pursue a wellness reset. Read on to learn the best tips to promote senior health in Dixon, Illinois!
It's critical for seniors to stay on top of their medical needs as they age. The risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes or high blood pressure increases. And seniors need routine physicals and a dedicated care team to help manage their health.
Seniors should schedule an annual exam with a trusted physician. They may want to ask friends and community members in Dixon for recommendations, particularly if they're new to the area. During an exam, a physical will:
Seniors may need to see specialists to address more targeted issues, like arthritis or thyroid problems. Their physician will guide them toward these individuals to help ensure comprehensive care.
When it comes to physical and mental wellness, nutrition is key. A diet loaded with processed foods and refined sugars can derail other efforts, like exercise, from having a positive impact.
Seniors in Dixon should use National Wellness Month as an opportunity to reevaluate their nutritional intake and make changes. A healthy diet includes:
Protein-rich meals, including lean meats or lentils, can fortify seniors with energy and support immune function. Whole grains and vegetables are a great source of fiber, which helps digestion and lowers the risk of heart disease. Likewise, avocados and nuts are a good source of healthy fats, which can lower bad cholesterol and reduce inflammation.
Seniors should drink around eight glasses of water each day to stay hydrated. Doing so can improve brain function while helping to prevent overeating. And seniors should steer clear of too many processed foods that can contribute to high blood pressure and weight gain.
Getting input from trained nutritionists can be helpful for seniors unsure where to start. Looking up healthy aging Dixon online can point seniors toward local resources that may inspire healthier food choices.
Senior wellness tips will always include an encouraging nudge to be more physically active. Seniors lose muscle mass and joint flexibility with age. Additionally, bone density and heart health can decline, leaving seniors less stable and confident.
Fortunately, exercise can help counteract these problems. Seniors should plan on getting 150 minutes of moderately vigorous exercise each week. This can come in the form of:
Many seniors may benefit from introducing light strength training, as well, to help rebuild muscle mass. Seniors with chronic health conditions should consult with their medical care team to determine what exercises are appropriate.
Some senior communities have aging well programs to engage older adults in physical activities. Seniors could consider joining aerobics classes or walking groups, especially if they're just starting to become active. Sometimes feeling solidarity with others in a workout group can make it easier to stick with a routine.
In any season of life, friendships are valuable. But for seniors who may be dealing with the loss of a spouse or loved one, finding new social outlets is pivotal for moving forward.
Senior enrichment activities can spur new friendships and, in some instances, help seniors find new hobbies. Nurturing new friendships can give seniors:
Seniors battling loneliness or isolation can benefit immensely from filling their social calendars. Dining with friends over lunch or scheduling a walk around campus with a neighbor can bring meaning to each day. Seniors can share news or pictures related to their family while providing a listening ear for others.
Seniors can try volunteering at a Dixon nonprofit to meet other like-minded individuals and support a good cause. They can join a book group at the library or another club in their senior living community. Adding even a few events or dates to a weekly lineup can bring more purpose and structure to a senior's life.
Finally, Dixon seniors should make sure they're finding time to practice self-care. Among medical appointments and family obligations, it's far too easy to neglect taking time for oneself. But finding time for self-care can enhance a senior's emotional and physical well-being.
And when seniors are also dealing with grief or challenging diagnoses, it's vital to find useful coping strategies to navigate difficult times. Self-care can take many forms, and it may involve:
Journaling at the end of each day can be a wonderful way to reflect and process emotions. Starting the day with meditation can bring clarity and help seniors feel more present. Playing some ambient music can set the tone and provide a peaceful backdrop for mindfulness practices.
For some seniors, simply reading a book or listening to a podcast can be a welcome indulgence. Ultimately, self-care is about listening to one's personal needs.
Seniors don't need to overhaul their schedules to find time for self-care. But they should feel comfortable declining an invitation or setting aside time to do something that feels meaningful.
National Wellness Month can jumpstart positive changes in a senior's wellness routine. From scheduling medical appointments to carving out time for self-care, seniors can take charge of what matters most. Adding more exercise and joining new community activities are other excellent ways to create positive changes.
Liberty Court's intimate campus and round-the-clock care make us the best senior living community in Dixon, Illinois. Our activity calendar features fun events, like sing-alongs and movie nights, and residents can enjoy lounging in our beautiful gardens. Contact us today for a tour!