Healthy Living Tips for Seniors

Americans are living much longer these days than in recent years. The elderly population is growing and with that comes the need for educational information regarding seniors living a healthy lifestyle. Following these simple tips will help seniors enjoy their later years.

• Keep an active lifestyle. You don't have to enter a marathon race, but walking or jogging daily is a great way to stay in shape and work the cardiovascular system. You can take an aerobic or yoga class.


• Kick unhealthy habits. If you are smoking it is time to put the cigarettes down. This can be easier said than done, especially if you have been smoking for over 20 years or more. Smoking in the elderly has been linked to Alzheimer's and also increases the risk of lung cancer. If you are a heavy drinker you need to cut down to one or two glasses of wine a week.


• Make healthy eating choices. Increase you fiber intake and cut your sodium intake. Females should increase the amount of calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone strength as osteoporosis is common in women over 65.


• Schedule regular doctor visits. Men should go for routine prostate exams and women need to have their bone density checked. Mental acuity also needs to be evaluated.


• Engage in social activity. Take a cooking class or dancing class. Do something that gets you out of the house and socializing with others on a weekly basis. This could include playing bingo or cards with a group. Engaging in social activities decreases the risk of depression as you get older and go through the nesting phase of your children being grown up and out of the house.