Your Health Won’t Wait –
It’s the all-too-present reality that many of us wish to ignore: aging.
While getting older is a privilege, the aging process can bring with it physical and mental changes that require diligence and proactive measures to address. Your health won’t wait for you to be ready – it’s essential to take steps now to promote health and wellness as you enter the golden years.
Fortunately, maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated. For many, implementing a few key habits and practices can go a long way toward staying physically and mentally fit for years to come.
St. Francis Villa is committed to helping our Metairie, Kenner, and New Orleans communities stay healthy at every stage of life. Here are five tips for promoting health and wellness as you age:
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
It can be tough to adjust to changes in your appetite or sense of taste as you get older, but a nutritious diet remains essential for health and wellness. Focus on whole foods like fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Be sure to stay hydrated and get enough protein to maintain muscle mass.
Stats show that a healthy diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, which become more common as you age. And as you replace your processed snacks with nutritious foods, you’ll likely feel better and have more energy too!
Not sure how to begin? Here are some quick tips that you can implement today:
- Add one extra serving of veggies or fruit to each meal
- Choose whole-grain options like brown rice and oats instead of white bread and pasta
- Include healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and avocados in your diet
- Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated
- Eat protein with each meal, such as fish, beans, eggs, or lean meats
2. Get A Bit Of Exercise Everyday
Are you getting up and out enough? Many older adults become more sedentary, which can lead to a loss of strength and balance and a higher risk of falls.
Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, such as walking, swimming, or light strength training. Exercise provides both physical and mental benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased strength, and better mood.
Find activities you enjoy and stick to a regular routine. Even light activity is better than none, so do what you can, and don’t get discouraged! Even the benefits of time in the fresh air and sunshine can boost your health and mood.
3. Manage Your Medications Carefully
As you age, you may be taking more medications – which makes it critical to take them correctly and be aware of side effects or interactions.
Use a pill organizer, set reminders, and keep an up-to-date list of your medications and dosages with you. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any concerns. And be sure to get regular medication reviews to determine if adjustments or changes are needed.
Are you unsure if your medications are having an adverse impact on your overall wellness? Don’t be afraid to reach out to your doctor with questions or concerns. Your health is worth it. Most often, they will look for ways to minimize side effects or switch you to alternative medications if needed.
4. Get Those Zzz’s!
Around Metarie, Kenner, and New Orleans, we know a thing or two about having a good time.
But even the most outgoing and social individuals need their rest! Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night to allow your body to recharge and repair. Sleep becomes even more critical as we age, helping to support brain health, mood, and immune function.
Not sure how to make sure you get adequate sleep each night? Here are some tips that can help you get your Zzzs:
- Stick to a consistent bedtime routine
- Limit screen time and bright lights before bed
- Make your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
- Try relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing before bed
- Limit naps, especially in the afternoon or evening
5. Stay Socially Connected
Finally, a significant factor in your well-being as you age is staying connected to others. Strong social bonds and relationships can improve both physical and mental health. In fact, studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness can increase health risks in older adults.
So reach out to family and friends regularly, join a club, volunteer, or get involved in activities you enjoy. Making social interaction and bonding a priority will help you thrive and find more joy and fulfillment in your golden years.
One of the best ways to stay engaged with others is by making your home at an assisted living community in New Orleans!
When you move to an assisted living community, you gain a built-in support system and daily opportunities for social interaction. Not to mention, you’ll have help available whenever you need it so you can focus on living life to the fullest. Plus, activities, events, and amenities are designed specifically to meet the needs and interests of seniors.
Live Your Best Life with St. Francis Villa!
Community is so important when it comes to finding friends and staying healthy in your later years. An assisted living community provides that sense of community and support, allowing you to embrace this exciting chapter of life.
St. Francis Villa offers vibrant assisted living and memory care in New Orleans. Our community serves individuals around Metairie and Kenner as well. Our vibrant community features spacious apartments, delicious homestyle dining, engaging activities and events, and compassionate care and assistance whenever you need it.
Are you ready to make this season of life your best one yet? Contact us today to learn more and schedule your personal visit. We’d love to welcome you to the St. Francis Villa family!
