Aging is a natural part of life and you should not dread getting older. It is well known that the aging process brings about various physical changes and you may become more susceptible to certain health conditions. That said, there are plenty of ways to ensure that you age gracefully and maintain good health as you get older. Here are five steps to healthy aging:
Step 1: Take care of your skin
Your skin will start to show signs of aging as you get older; you may notice fine lines, sagging, and wrinkles. These are natural signs of aging, but many older people feel self-conscious about the visible effects that aging has on their skin. It is not possible to prevent the signs of aging, but you can slow the process.
Taking good care of your skin will help you maintain a more youthful and radiant complexion. According to the blog byrdie.com, a good anti-aging skincare routine should involve cleansing, toning, and moisturizing every morning and night. You should also use a facial serum containing antioxidants like vitamin C to target specific skin concerns like fine lines or redness. The key to youthful skin is hydration and you can keep your face look plump using hydrating treatments like facial masks. You should also keep your skin clear and hydrated by drinking enough water and following a healthy diet.
There is also a variety of non-invasive cosmetic treatments that can help you reverse the visible signs of aging and achieve a radiant complexion. Some of the most popular anti-aging treatments are Botox, filler injections, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. These treatments can take years off your skin and give you a much-needed confidence boost as you get older.
Step 2: Move your body
Exercise is essential at any age, but it becomes even more important when you get older and have a higher risk of health complications. Regular exercise can significantly lower your risk of developing medical conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Being active can also have a positive impact on your mental wellbeing by improving your mood and reducing stress.
The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that older adults should aim to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week. Older adults should focus on doing a combination of muscle-strengthening activities, aerobics, and balance training. If you are unable to do 150 minutes of exercise a week because of a chronic health condition, then you should assess your capabilities and do as much physical activity as possible.
There are many ways to incorporate more exercise into your lifestyle as you get older. For instance, you could start an active hobby such as team sports or hiking. This could be a great way to boost your activity levels and meet like-minded people in your local area. You can also increase your exercise by making simple changes to your lifestyle such as walking to the shops instead of driving or going on a daily walk after lunch.
Step 3: Watch what you eat
Your diet will play a significant role in your health as you get older. Following a healthy diet will help you stay at your ideal weight, maintain good fitness levels, and reduce your risk of chronic health conditions like high blood pressure. Eating a nutritious diet will also improve your immune system and help you fight off common infections and illnesses as you get older. This is why it is so important to follow a healthy diet as you age.
Guidelines state that adult men should consume roughly 2,500 calories a day and women should eat around 2,000. However, you adjust the number of calories you eat based on factors like your level of activity and lifestyle. Women who do minimal activity should stick with a diet of around 1,600 calories a day, for example. Eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fresh foods. Try to avoid processed foods that are high in saturated fats, sugar, and salt. If you are struggling to get all of the essential vitamins and minerals in your diet, then you can take a quality supplement to ensure that your body gets all of the nutrients that it needs.
Step 4: Get enough sleep
Sleep is essential to your health and wellbeing. Failing to get enough quality sleep can have long-term health consequences and increase your chances of developing multiple conditions including depression, obesity, and cardiovascular issues. You must get the sleep that your body needs to heal and recharge at the end of a busy day. Medical guidelines state that adults should aim to get between seven and nine hours of sleep a day. If you are struggling to sleep at night, then try relaxing activities before bed like listening to calming music or taking a warm shower or bath.
Step 5: Learn to accept limitations
It is normal to find daily activities more strenuous as you get older. You may find it more difficult to run errands or to do household chores, for example. Certain physical activities will become especially difficult if you develop a chronic condition like arthritis or mobility issues. You must learn to accept any limitations that come with aging and reach out for support if you need it. Make your loved ones aware if you are struggling and ask them to assist you.
If you start to find your daily routines more difficult, then moving to a senior living community can ensure that you get the support you need to maintain a good quality of life. Frontier Management explains how they offer “independent living services for older adults who are capable of living on their own but enjoy the company of other older adults.” You can also opt for assisted living services if you would like to require dedicated support from a team of professionally trained carers. Moving into a senior living community is a big decision, but it has dozens of potential benefits. You will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a community of like-minded people and enjoy security, exciting activities, and professional care if and when you need it.
Following these steps will help you enjoy the aging process and stay healthy and happy as you get older.
