We are living longer these days and that means we can look forward to longer lives as senior citizens. Today many of the things that our ancestors had problems with and had to live with, we can have repaired or replaced. Like damaged joints can be replaced, cataracts can be removed, heart problems can be treated.
But if we don’t stay healthy, those extra years aren’t much fun. We live longer but we are also suffering from Alzheimer, Dementia and other memory related issues. For anyone approaching their golden years, these things are a big concern.
There are studies that have found that some cognitive illnesses are inherited. But experts have found evidence when we have good medical care and live a healthy lifestyle, the mind stays good and thus the body stays vital.
Here we are going to provide 8 steps you need to follow so that your golden years are healthy years.
Keep Active
This doesn’t just mean exercising, but that is important, you need to also be doing things. You want to keep your blood vessels in good health because they furnish the blood to your heart, lungs and the rest of your body. A good exercise routine will insure that your body and your brain are getting the nutrients and oxygen they need.
Mind Challenge
Have you ever heard the saying “use it or lose it”? Well this couldn’t be any more accurate than when it comes to our brain and our muscles. If we don’t use them, they grow weak and quit. Your brain is a muscle so by keeping it challenged, like learning a new language, reading and even working crossword puzzles or playing an instrument, is exercise for that muscle.
Fruits and Vegetables
We can’t express enough that fruits and veggies are a needed part of your daily diet. Foods that are plant-based are full of the healthful components needed to protect you against chronic diseases. The brain needs antioxidants that are found in vitamins A, C and E. Adding food like blueberries and walnuts are full of those antioxidants and have been shown to slow the brain’s aging process.
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure over a long period of time will damage your blood vessels and those are what gets the nutrients & oxygen to your brain. Studies have found that those who have chronic high blood pressure have slower memories and have trouble processing information.
Blood Sugar Level
The United States is having a type 2 diabetes epidemic and the main cause is overweight. When your body cannot breakdown its sugar intake normally, this is the beginning of diabetes. When you have repeated high blood sugar, it damages the blood vessel linings and again, these are what carry the nutrient and oxygen to your brain.
Cholesterol Controlled
High cholesterol clogs arteries and clogged arteries lead to heart attacks. There really isn’t much more to say about this, just a reminder to control your foods that are high in cholesterol.
Depression Is Serious
Chronic depression has short-term issues, but it can also damage the brain permanently and increase the possibilities of cognitive problems as we age. One of the biggest risk factors of Alzheimers is a lifetime of major depression.
Stay Connected
If you live alone, it can be an isolated feeling that can lead to health problems. If you live by yourself, keep in touch with family and friends on a daily basis. Join the community senior group and attend church, take classes and just get out and walk the neighborhood.
