How to age well

1. Maintain a healthy diet.

It sounds obvious, but having a balanced diet is crucial for good health, energy and preventing illness. An ideal diet should be low in saturated fat, with lots of fruit and vegetables, wholegrains, oily fish, and small amounts of low-fat dairy and lean meat.

 

2. Make the most of your Doctor.

It’s a good idea to get some routine tests done at the doctors to check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. High readings increase your risk factor for stroke and heart disease but any problems are completely reversible with medication.

 

3. Get a vitamin boost.

Lots of people have a vitamin D deficiency and don’t know it. In fact, it’s estimated that it affects half of the adult population. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cognitive impairment, bone problems and also cardiovascular disease.

 

4. Stay active.

Daily exercise helps you to stay strong and healthy. This will lower your risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even cancer. If that wasn't enough, staying active can boost your self-esteem, improve your sleep, and give you more energy.

 

Government guidelines recommend that older adults do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, as well as strengthening exercises twice a week.

 

5. Look after your teeth.

Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Floss helps to prevent gum disease by removing pieces of food and plaque from between the teeth.

 

6. Take care of your feet.

Look after your feet by applying moisturiser to prevent dry skin and cutting your toenails straight across. Make sure you have footwear that fits properly and supports your feet.

If they're sore you may be tempted to stay in slippers, but a pair of trainers could be a good option as they are more supportive.

 

7. Sort out your sleep.

Many of us have trouble getting – or staying – asleep as we get older. This can leave you feeling tired and grumpy.

Avoid insomnia by cutting down on daytime naps, establishing a bedtime routine and going to bed at the same time each night.

 

8. Take the tests.

As we age our hearing and eyesight can be affected, so it’s important to get them checked regularly. Hearing loss is common in older people so see your doctor if you have to have the TV on loud or having trouble tuning into conversations. If you need a hearing aid, some are available on the NHS.

 

Have your eyes checked every year if you are aged 70 or over, and every two years if you are under 70. This means that changes in your vision can be corrected and any problems can be picked up before they seriously affect your sight. Eye tests are free if you are over 60.

 

9. Stay in touch.

Spending time with other people can prevent you from feeling lonely or anxious. If you find that you are no longer able to do the things you used to do, try to develop new hobbies and interests or think about becoming a volunteer.

 

10. Give up smoking.

It's linked to a whole range of different health problems, including heart disease, lung cancer, and bronchitis.

The good news is that if you stop smoking, regardless of your age, your circulation, your lung capacity and your energy levels will improve.

 

Source: AgeUK