Reaching 70 years old is quite an achievement. It’s certainly a milestone worth celebrating, as there are so many things to be excited about. While some people might be worried about a few extra wrinkles, the smart ones realize that the senior years are some of their best ones.
It’s an opportunity to bask in the wisdom that you have earned over the last few decades of your life, and the opportunity to focus on what truly matters. However, along with the joy and richness that comes with age, also comes a certain amount of health risks. We can find ourselves struggling physically, as our bodies aren’t built the way they used to be.
The good news is that with a few simple habits and lifestyle adjustments, you can stay healthy and vibrant well into your 70s and beyond. Here are some essential tips to help you live a happy and healthy life over 70.
Stay Active
Exercise remains one of the most important aspects of staying healthy over 70. Regular movement will help maintain your mobility and also keep your heart strong. Yet, the key is to choose exercises that are gentle and sustainable long term. In other words, it’s more beneficial to do 20 to 30 minutes every day of light walking than it is to work out at full capacity once a month. Slow and steady wins the race, especially when you’re trying to stay in shape as a senior.
Focus on Nutrients
Your body depends on certain nutrients and vitamins to stay healthy and strong. That’s why you should prioritize eating a well-balanced diet full of all the right foods. This will help keep your immune system strong and also help you avoid developing diseases like cancer. Eating a whole-food diet can also improve your energy levels and even support your bone density.
Your diet should include plenty of leafy green vegetables, eggs, lean proteins, and of course, healthy fats. Fats get a bad reputation because we assume that all fat is bad, yet the truth is we need fats for our brains to function at their best. Foods like olive oil and avocado are a must for staying healthy and energetic.
Stay Social
Loneliness is a big concern among seniors, and one of the most common reasons why seniors are often susceptible to depression. It’s important to stay socially connected in order to maintain mental health and lower your risk of cognitive decline. Staying social can be achieved in a variety of different ways, from attending family gatherings to meeting up with a local group or sports team. The idea is to get regular interaction with people you care about and keep your mind busy.
Social health is just as important as physical health, so make sure that you nurture your relationships and connections if you hope to live a healthy and long life.
