Beginning retirement can be an exciting time when you will want to travel, see friends and family, and enjoy favorite pastimes and recreation. One of the best ways to ensure that you can fully participate in these kinds of activities is to take care of your body. Here are some tips for remaining healthy and active during retirement:
Dietary Habits
The connection between nutrition and physical health is well-established. While it is essential for everyone to eat well, those entering their retirement years could be more susceptible to illnesses. An excellent way to prevent sickness is by eating the right foods to support your body. By being contentious about the foods you eat and making a choice to consume nourishing rather than unhealthy foods, you can do your part to properly fuel your body for all its activities and avoid illness.
Physical Activity
Regular exercise is a key component to healthy living. By adopting a physical fitness routine, you are taking an important step towards keeping your joints healthy and your stress reduced. Physical activity can also improve brain function and blood pressure. One way to incorporate exercise is through community fitness programs. There are often classes and activities offered by senior community centers and service providers. Further, Michigan residents can use the “Enhance Fitness” program. This program offered through the state is a low-cost exercise program for older adults which focuses on flexibility, strength, balance, and aerobic training.
Before beginning an exercise program it is important to consult with your doctor to determine what activities will be appropriate for you. However, in most cases, even a daily walk can be highly beneficial to your health and well-being.
Intellectual Stimulation
When considering senior health, diet and exercise tend to jump to the forefront. However, another critical wellness area is mental activity. Those retirees transitioning from an intellectually challenging job often experience a reduction in exposure to activities which stimulate their mental functioning. It is just as important to exercise the mind as the body. Taking time each day to engage in an intellectually stimulating task such as completing a crossword puzzle or reading a book can help you maintain focus and mental acuity and may prevent future brain cell loss.
By choosing to engage in the right habits, retirees can help ensure they are able to enjoy their retirement in good health. We have experience helping seniors connect with resources which can assist them in reaching their health goals. Please contact us online or by phone if we may be of assistance.