As we get older it becomes more and more important to take care of our health. Oftentimes, it may be discouraging to make lifestyle changes because we feel that it is “too late”. The truth is that it is never too late, you can make changes within your life at any age that will positively impact your health. Making these changes will promote healthy aging and prevent further health problems. We are going to share with you 5 lifestyle changes to make in your later years!
1. Change Your Diet
Eating a healthy diet can promote many health benefits and improve brain function. Proper nutrition will give you energy and can prevent diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease. Changing your diet won’t happen overnight and it is better to make small changes over time. Here are a few tips for healthy eating:
- Include more fiber into your diet
- Drink more water
- Eat more whole foods
- Here is more information from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
2. Be More Active
Exercising more often can prevent diseases, improve your mood and your cognitive function. Exercise can help you live a longer, happier, and healthier life. Here are a few exercise ideas to help you be more active:
- Walking
- Dancing
- Yoga
- Stretching
- For more information, here is an article from the CDC.
3. Prioritize Sleep
Prioritizing quality sleep will help improve your memory, alertness, and health overall. When you don’t get enough sleep, you may start to feel irritable and depressed, and your risk of falling increases. Here are a few things that you can do to prioritize quality sleep:
- Have a consistent sleep schedule
- Avoid naps in the afternoon
- Create a bedtime routine
- Keep electronics out of the bedroom
- Here is more information from the CDC.
4. Quit Smoking
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No matter your age or how long you have been smoking, quitting will improve your health greatly. When you quit smoking, you can breathe easier, increase your energy levels, and have better blood circulation. Quitting smoking can also lower your risk of cancer, lung disease, and many other health conditions. Here is more information about the benefits of quitting smoking and resources if you are looking to quit.
5. Prioritize Your Mental Health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Mental health affects how you think, feel, and act. It is important to stay connected and social with others to prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness. Here are a few things you can do:
- Pick a new hobby
- Socialize as much as possible
- Exercise
- Be creative
- Try meditation or yoga
- Here is additional information and mental health resources.
No matter your age, healthy lifestyle changes will help improve your physical and mental health. Try incorporating a few of these changes into your lifestyle this year to promote healthy aging. If you have any questions about your health, it is important to reach out to your physician or a healthcare professional for further information.
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