What makes the \u201cgolden years\u201d golden? Is it perfect physical and cognitive health? Unlimited financial resources? Actually, what makes the golden years golden is you, determined to live life to the fullest despite whatever age-related challenges you may face as a senior adult.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s look at some ways this can be accomplished.<\/p>\n
Maintaining physical health means you have more energy to enjoy a wider range of activities throughout your life.<\/p>\n
Exercise is an important component and aids in maintaining strength and endurance<\/a>. The combination of regular resistance and cardiovascular training is recommended for people of all ages to live life to the fullest.<\/p>\n Experts recommend 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity activity. Five days a week, 30 minutes per session would work, or you could break that up into two or three 10-15 minute sessions per day. Don\u2019t forget to incorporate strength training and balance exercises. Separate each strength training session by at least one day\u2019s rest to reduce the risk of injury.<\/p>\n If you are physically unable to achieve these levels, you can still work on your physical fitness. People with chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and asthma can benefit from\u00a0less strenuous exercises<\/a>\u00a0designed to meet their needs.<\/p>\n Your body needs to consume a\u00a0healthy diet<\/a>\u00a0to function effectively and feel energized. A healthy diet should consist of lean meats, fish, poultry, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains like brown rice, and low-fat dairy milk to drink.<\/p>\n Exercise and proper diet are also key to weight control, which should result in improved mobility that makes pursuing your interests and activities easier.<\/p>\n (Note: Consult your physician before starting an exercise routine or significantly changing your diet.)<\/p>\n The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention\u00a0offers tips on practicing medication safety at home.<\/a><\/p>\n It\u2019s easy to put off a medication or even skip a dose, but the timing of taking them and under what circumstance they should be taken (with food, for example) can significantly alter their effects.<\/p>\n Your doctor is a critical partner in your health. Maintaining\u00a0regular contact<\/a>\u00a0with him or her keeps both of you better informed.\u00a0You will want to talk about any changes you are experiencing in your health, including challenges in obtaining a sufficient amount of restful sleep.<\/p>\n A sleep disorder can cause depression, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and weight gain in senior adults. So it\u2019s important to speak with your physician if you suspect you may have sleep issues.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t hesitate to ask questions about your health in general, and follow their recommendations.<\/p>\nDiet.\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Take your medications as prescribed.\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Stay in touch with your physician.\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Stay Social<\/strong><\/h2>\n