As we begin 2011, most of us make resolutions to live a healthier, happier new year! It’s never too late to make changes in order to achieve a healthy life style. And for our senior citizens, often it just takes a few small adjustments to make a big difference in their lives.
Here are a few tips for seniors, and their families as well, that may help you achieve your goals in the new year.
• Eat snacks that are rich with nutrients. Instead of grabbing a bag of chips, seniors should reach for fruit, like a banana to help boost potassium, or an orange to boost vitamin C and immune levels. Nuts are also a good choice because of their omega-3, vitamin E levels and could possibly lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Check up on your dental health. Seniors need an exam twice yearly because minor teeth issues can lead to big problems as well as their wallets. Also, make sure medications are in order. Check to see if all medications are still necessary and make sure there are no conflicting medications that could cause harm. It’s best to keep prescriptions with one pharmacy so pharmacists can red flag any dangerous drug combinations.
• Get up and walk. Walking is an easy way for seniors to get low impact exercise that won’t take a toll on their bodies. Seniors should take short walks of about 15 to 45 minutes, a minimum of three times a week, in a safe environment, such as their neighborhood or a local park. In the winter weather, seniors can go to the local mall and walk around.
• Take up a hobby. Seniors can take an art or painting class, or even just simple coloring at home. Crossword puzzles and Sudoku are also good choices. These activities are fun, easy and help stimulate the mind.
• Laugh more. Laughing relaxes the body and lets out tension and stress. It also improves the function of the blood vessels and increased blood flow, helping seniors protect against health and other cardiovascular problems.
• Spend time with family and friends. Seniors who spend time with family and friends tend to improve their quality of life because they don’t feel isolated.
These are just a few tips that may help our seniors, and all of us, have a happier healthier 2011!
For information on senior living options, contact Mary Dembkowski at Summerhill Villa. Our phone number is 661-254-9933.