Know Your Own Female Body

Many people look forward to retirement as a time of travel, pursuing hobbies, or simply spending time with family. But often, the dreamed-of golden years are not so golden. The fact is, human bodies do age and wear out, some faster than others. But there are ways you can try to stay ahead of the aging process so you can get more enjoyment over your remaining years.

Senior health issues 

Although people face the potential of illness and injuries throughout their lives, the older they get the more susceptible they are to these problems. For example, did you know that hearing loss due to aging can affect your balance, leading to falls? And because human bones become more brittle with age, they break more easily and are slower to heal.

Also, as your body ages or you become more sedentary, you are more likely to develop conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, depression, and cognitive issues. Your immune system may also become impaired, making us susceptible to contagious diseases and infections.

Tips for staying healthy

To enjoy a fulfilling and satisfying life even into your later years, make sure to take responsibility for your health and take steps to promote a healthy lifestyle. The following tips can help you achieve your best life (and you shouldn't wait until you reach senior status before you start):

• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes lots of fresh fruits and vegetables; low-fat protein such as chicken and fish; plenty of dairy; and healthy nuts and legumes. Also limit sugar, salt, and saturated fats.
• Get plenty of exercise. Take part in cardiovascular and strength-building routines, but also do activities such as walking, gardening, housework, dancing, yoga, and hobbies that require activity.
• Sleep is necessary to rejuvenate your body. Try to get 7 to 8 hours every night. To promote better sleep, limit caffeine and alcohol when approaching your bedtime, avoid long naps during the day, and follow a routine by going to bed and waking at the same time every day.
• Socialization is important for mental health and wellness. Interacting with others helps maintain mental alertness and wards off depression. Join groups that spark your interest, invite a neighbor to coffee, encourage friends and family to visit regularly, and if you have a caregiver, attempt to engage them in conversation.
• Keep regularly scheduled medical appointments as often as your provider recommends. Discuss health issues, symptoms, medications, and side effects, as well as healthy lifestyle recommendations. Limit exposure to contagious diseases when possible.

Human bodies may not be designed to last forever, but by assuming responsibility for your health and taking certain steps to maintain physical activity, proper nutrition, and mental well-being, you can increase the chances of a fulfilling senior experience.

Find out more about senior wellness care.