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Updated 08/09/2017 3:00pm | Budding this spring season are new beginnings, and Alert1 Medical Alert Systems wants you to blossom out! Today’s seniors need to mentally, physically and spiritually take care of themselves in order to flourish. If you’re looking for the secret for senior longevity, look no further. Here are 14 personal “spring cleaning” tips to keep you sharp and in high spirits!
Eat Healthy
We often hear that we are what we eat. Eating healthy is key to a healthy body and mental health. Senior longevity and a healthy diet begins with the quality of food that enters in your system. Retain your vitality with these simple tips:
- Seniors need to stay hydrated. Drink at least 8 glasses of water each day. That’s a lot of water! But did you know that a 2% drop in body water can affect your short-term memory? Drink up!
- Maintain a healthy diet with fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid TV dinners and processed foods. The key here is to eat fresh and cut down on the sodium. 97% of Americans consume too much salt, which puts them at greater risk of heart diseases.
- Take your vitamins, every day. Vitamin C to keep away the colds and Vitamin B to keep your energy up!
- Sign up for a grocery delivery service for seniors. This is especially helpful if you have mobility issues or don’t drive.
Put more effort and attention to the way you prepare your food. Don’t fry when you can steam. Don’t sauté when you can bake. Less oil, less chance of clogging your arteries!
Stay active and social
Be active, both in exercise and in socially. This releases a chemical called endorphins, which just makes you feel GOOD. Boost your happiness by:
- Meeting new people and making new friends. Maintain relationships with friends and family. Young or old – new friends can come in surprising ages and from unfamiliar backgrounds.
- Cultivate your spring garden by brightening your yard with colorful perennials. Planting a garden with different varieties and fragrant blooms can stimulate your senior’s senses and boost brain activity.
- Get involved in your local community and make the most of senior retirement. Contribute your wisdom and experience to the young’uns.
- Take a walk outside or spend time outdoors in fresh air. Especially if you live in a warm state or where the air is fresh.
- Exercise, exercise, exercise. For seniors, strengthening your body is essential to effectively limiting medical emergencies (it’s never too late to get started).
Hold Nothing Back
Remember that humor, laughter and play can help manage our stress and keep us feeling good.
- Express yourself! It’s not just for Madonna. It's for you too. By the way, the Material Girl is 55 years young this year.
- Remember to laugh. It keeps you young and mentally sharp.
- Stay positive and rekindle that childhood sense of wonderment. Smile at simple things.
Do not be afraid to talk about things that bother you. Maybe they bother others too!
Get a Checkup
Just because we are older does not mean we are done reinventing ourselves. Seize change and make an effort to be healthy. Be prepared for the road ahead!
- Remember to keep regular checkups with your physician. Aim for a clean bill of health to start the year.
- Ask your physician for recommendations on senior alternative medicine treatments. Alternative therapy and medicines can improve your health when used simultaneously with your existing treatment plan
Be awesome in 2015. It’s going to be a great year.