Aging is a natural part of life. While we can’t control our age, we can control the actions that affect our health.
By taking steps to keep your body healthy, you’re more likely to live a long life full of laughs and good memories. Following these easy tips can keep your body, mind and soul in tip-top shape for years to come.
Eat Right
Food is our body’s fuel, so it makes sense that eating right is a huge component of aging well. Eating a healthy, balanced diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables and proteins while reducing processed foods and added sugars is ideal for healthy aging.
In addition to fueling your body, a healthy diet can lower your chances of developing diabetes and reduce your weight — which is associated with a variety of health benefits. In addition to a healthy diet, taking vitamins like B12 has been shown in some studies to positively impact cognitive performance.
Exercise
They say a body in motion stays in motion. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to boost energy and prevent aging. High-intensity interval training is one of the easiest ways to maximize health benefits. By doing short bursts of intense exercise, instead of long-term moderate exercise, numerous studies have found significantly improved fitness and muscle tone.
While this method is a great use of time, it’s essential to listen to your body and modify exercises as needed. Taking precautions to ensure your joints are safe before exercising is key to avoiding long-term injury.
Be Creative
While taking care of the body is essential, it’s also important to take care of the mind. Doing creative activities stretches the mind, improves mood and even reduces the chances of memory decline.
Playing music, drawing, painting, writing and dancing have all been associated with a slowed aging process. Participating in yoga and meditation are also great ways to keep the mind healthy and the creative juices flowing. Several studies have found a link between a regular yoga practice and increased creativity, focus, well-being and memory.
Be Social
A body of research demonstrates the importance of keeping strong social ties with both family and friends. It suggests being social keeps the mind and body thriving for longer than those without close relationships.
It’s also estimated that those who feel disconnected from others are about three times more likely to pass away during a severe illness than those who have many close relationships. Joining a social club or taking a part-time job are all great ways to stay connected as you grow older.
At Friendship at Home, we value an active and healthy lifestyle as you age. We also value you being able to stay in your own home for as long as you want. If you’re interested in aging in your own home, with up to full nursing home level care, call us at 614-7342167.