Most people know that eating healthy and getting regular physical checkups are two ways to stay healthy. This is especially important for senior citizens, as our health tends to naturally decline as we age. However, just simply eating healthy isn’t all that is needed to ensure that seniors will have the best quality of life. There are a number of things that can be done to ensure that seniors can be healthy physically, emotionally, and mentally.
#1: Stay Active
Physical Activity
It’s imperative that seniors stay physically active as it helps them maintain their independence. Becoming sedentary greatly increases the risk of falls, as our joints become weaker as we age, and our bones become more fragile, making falls extremely dangerous. Staying physically active decreases this risk and also the risk of developing other health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
The good news is that moderate exercise is enough to help decrease the risk of illness and injury. Seniors can greatly benefit from exercises as simple as walking. Even hobbies such as gardening and golfing offer some cardiovascular benefits.
Socialize with Others
In addition to staying physically active, it’s just as important for seniors to be socially active. Social interaction is good for everyone’s mental health. Seniors especially benefit from this because they are more prone to depression due to facing many losses, whether it be through retirement or the death of a loved one. Seniors can stay active by joining senior fitness groups or clubs whenever gathering in groups is safe for them. They can also learn how to use social apps, such as Zoom to help with feelings of isolation.
#2: Start a New Hobby
Seniors can also benefit from starting a new hobby. This can be arts and crafts/D.I.Y.s, writing, joining a book club, or trying something they’ve always wanted to do. New hobbies also give seniors an opportunity to remain socially active, while engaging in a hobby itself gives them a sense of purpose. Some hobbies, such as fishing and hiking, also double as physical activity. Seniors should definitely look into hobbies that allow them to be both socially and physically active, benefiting both their mental and physical health.
#3: Learn a New Skill
Learning a new skill is a good way for seniors to keep their minds sharp. Studies have shown that cognitive functioning starts to decline around the age of 70, so it’s important to continue learning and doing activities that keep the brain active. Some skills to learn are to play an instrument (which is also good for fine motor movement) and even learning a new language.
#4: Travel
Around the World
Learning a new language will definitely come in handy for seniors who plan on traveling around the world after retirement, or even retiring in a foreign country. Traveling is also another way for seniors to stay active both physically and socially. It’s also a good way for seniors to relax and fully enjoy the life of retirement.
Around the Country
Some senior citizens may be wary of, or not even be able to travel around the world. That’s okay because they can still benefit from traveling around the country, or even just their own state. Within the United States, seniors can travel to see their favorite sports teams play or to see a Broadway show in the city--- there are plenty of events that happen (and will happen again post-COVID) for seniors to enjoy.
It’s recommended that when seniors travel, that they should be comfortable, safe, and necessary accommodations should be available. A charter bus is one of the safest and most comfortable ways to travel, and it’s also more cost-effective when traveling with a group.
Retirement is also a time for rest, as seniors have worked a good portion of their lives, and now it’s time for them to relax. Fortunately, light physical activity, socializing, a hobby, and traveling are all healthy forms of relaxing.