It’s Active Aging Week – a weeklong campaign dedicated to challenging the negative perceptions about getting older and encouraging individuals over 50 to continue thriving in their daily lives.
So what exactly is active aging? Well, aging actively means getting older without compromising your active lifestyle. It’s all about staying engaged physically and mentally throughout your life. As an agency with substantial experience in the senior living industry, Plan B wants to offer you some tips for active aging and enjoying life in your later years.
Stay Active
It goes without saying that you need to stay active if you’re going to age actively, but daily movement really does play such a significant role in staying healthy throughout the years. Just 20-30 minutes a day of moderate exercise can help prevent and manage chronic diseases, improve balance and stamina, reduce risk of falls, and improve brain health.
Stay Involved
Participating in social, cultural, or economical events is key to continuing a healthy lifestyle as you age. According to the WHO, staying involved in your community, volunteering, or even just catching up with a neighbor can help foster a sense of satisfaction and purpose that will improve your mental health.
Stay Calm
You’d assume after hitting retirement, life would get less stressful – and hopefully, it does. However, getting older also brings on new stressors like the loss of a loved one, a change in finances, or even health issues. To deal with these anxieties, try practicing meditation, breathing techniques, or mindfulness – and always remember to reach out for support.
Focus On Your Food
Nutrition is crucial for staying healthy later in life, and while everything is healthy in moderation, it is super important to incorporate lean meats, vegetables, fruits, and low-fat dairy products into your diet. Individuals over 50 should also work to include enough nutrients, such as potassium, calcium, vitamin D, dietary fiber, and vitamin B12 in their daily meals and snacks.
Check-In Regularly
No one likes going to the doctor, but we all have to – especially as we get older. In order to keep living a healthy and fulfilling life, it’s essential to attend regular checkups instead of only visiting the doctor when you’re sick. Living proactively can help prevent disease and injury.
For more tips on active aging and more information on Active Aging Week, check out activeagaingweek.com
