We all know that we’ll get older someday. But actually living lifestyles with this future in mind isn’t something very commonplace in today’s world. Aging well isn’t about looking younger (although that doesn’t hurt), but rather about feeling our best so we can continue to live a happy and healthy life, regardless of how old we’re getting. If you want to go into your golden years feeling energetic and good with your health and self, here are some tips to help you build up to that lifestyle:
Stay on top of your health
As we age, conditions and issues that we may not have had before start to show up. And a part of aging well and building a healthy lifestyle is understanding what we can do to improve our health, despite conditions that we may be living with.
For example, if you’ve been diagnosed with lymphedema, something that could help you manage your condition is to use a pneumatic compression device. If your doctor says that your cholesterol is high and needs to be managed, you want to stay on top of your diet and daily activity to manage it. Managing health conditions is one of the main things to do to age well.
Prioritize movement
Besides managing your health conditions, one of the most important things anyone should be doing as they strive to age well is prioritizing exercise. Exercise helps us to stay at a healthy weight. It allows us to move our joints and bodies to avoid issues. It allows us to also take care of our mental health and keep our blood circulating in a healthy way. You’ll want to talk to your doctor about the best options for you and your health.
Whether you go swimming, hike, walk, run, or play sports, just make sure you’re moving in a way that feels good to you. Avoid anything that could exacerbate an injury or condition that you already have.
Be mindful of your diet
What you eat (and drink) can have an impact on how you age. A healthy diet is a key component of healthy aging. Too much sugar or greasy food can impact you as you get older and can cause a variety of health conditions.
Additionally, abusing alcohol and substances can have you aging prematurely and not to mention cause all kinds of health conditions in your later years. If you want to have great skin as you get older, limiting your alcohol intake is supremely important for your overall health, as well as your appearance.
Sleep well
Sleep is a key factor in longevity, great skin, better moods, and healthy aging. A lack of sleep doesn’t only show up in our appearance. It can also impact our health as we get older. Heart issues, cognitive decline, and weight gain are all side effects of poor sleep over the years.
If you’re not sleeping well these days, talk to your medical provider about things that you can do to have better sleep hygiene. Whether that looks like sleep supplements, or it looks like testing for sleep apnea, it’s worth investing in your sleep for a healthier lifestyle as you get older.
Stay mindful
Your mental health should be taken care of as much as your physical health. Taking care of your mental function is key to aging with a healthy brain. Taking care of your “soul” is also important to aging well. By now, you may have techniques and practices that help you navigate your overall mental health. You may practice meditation, spend time in nature, or get therapy—whatever helps you to manage your stress and take care of your health, it’s important to keep your mental well-being in mind as you age.
In Conclusion
Think about your future today. The way you take care of yourself now affects the future you of tomorrow. From better sleep to good food and plenty of movement, love your body and mind today for happy senior years.
