Entering our senior years can be a time of celebration as retirement begins. However, this may also be a time when age-related medical conditions can arise. Some may experience physical limitations due to diabetes, bone loss, or reduced muscle mass while others can find that their memory and cognitive functioning are impaired due to brain illnesses. Although aging may bring health challenges, there are steps you can take which may help you manage age-related illness.
Exercise
Remaining physically active is a vital part of managing and preventing illness in individuals of all ages. Getting into a routine where you exercise regularly can help reduce stress, keep your weight in a healthy range, and improve your blood pressure and flexibility. If you have a medical issue, exercise may help you reduce your symptoms and work towards recovery. Ask your doctor if your condition allows for a fitness regimen and recommendations about the activities which would most benefit you.
Mentally Stimulating Activity
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 50 million people in the world have Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia. Those that have been diagnosed with this type of condition can have a host of symptoms which span from mild to severe. Depending on the individual’s health, they could reduce their stress level and improve their mood by engaging in enjoyable activities with another person. By taking time to engage with someone else through activities such as a nature walk, preparing food, viewing family videos, or reading through a favorite book, a person with this condition can help stimulate their cognitive functioning and a meaningfully connect with the world around them. Additionally, those older individuals who do not have a form of dementia can also benefit from regular intellectual stimulation as it will keep their minds focused and alert and may prevent the loss of brain cells.
Nutrition
The relationship between healthy eating and recovery from illness is compelling. Some individuals may have conditions such as diabetes or hypoglycemia which necessitate healthy eating habits. While others may be on specific diets because they are managing illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, or high blood pressure. Whatever your circumstance, eating a balanced diet which is wholesome and nourishing rather than comprised of processed foods and sugar, will help support your physical health and your body’s ability to recover.
Prevention
As the body ages, the immune system can weaken. One way in which seniors can be particularly vulnerable to illness is by contracting the flu. With a decreased ability to fight the virus, there is an increased risk that an older individual who has the flu can develop pneumonia or have increased symptoms for another lung or heart-related condition. If you already have a lung or heart-related illness a simple and effective means to avoid further complications is to get a yearly flu shot.
Another risk area for older individuals is osteoporosis. Those who have experienced bone loss can take steps to help prevent further symptoms through proper diet and exercise habits, not smoking, and keeping their alcohol intake to a minimum.
Excessive weight can also increase your chances of developing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, stroke, and heart disease. If you are already suffering from one of these conditions, taking action to employ good physical fitness and dietary habits now, you can help you deal with your symptoms and work towards improved health.
Managing age-related illness can be challenging, but there are ways in which you can be proactive in your healing process and future health. We understand the medical challenges which come with getting older and can direct you to resources which will support your well-being. Please contact us online or by phone if we may be of assistance.