Leading a Healthy Lifestyle in My Senior Years

As I get older, I realize more and more how important it is lead a healthy lifestyle if I want to enjoy and get as much out of each and everyday as I possibly can. For me leading a healthy lifestyle not only consists of eating right, exercising, having regular medical checkups, getting enough rest and the other basics of healthy living. It also means enjoying life to its fullest potential. If we aren’t happy with ourselves or life in general, eating that “apple a day, to keep the doctor away”, really isn’t that important, in my book. Here are some of the things I try do to lead a more healthy lifestyle.

  1.  Diet: I’m more aware now then ever before of the foods that I consume, and the ones to avoid to keep myself healthy. I try to keep that salt shaker at arms length, as heart problems do run in my family and too much sodium can be a contributor to heart disease as we all know. I have always had a hard time getting those recommended daily requirements of vegetables and fruits in my diet, so lately I have been drinking more veggie and fruit juices to help compensate for some of those leafy greens, I may not otherwise get. I also take that one-a-day vitamin supplement that my doctor recommends. We go out and eat, at least a couple of times a week. I do look for healthy menu options, but if I see something I really like I order it, even if it probably isn’t the healthiest option. I tell myself that’s part of enjoying life. I usually will have a glass of wine with my dinner too, but am careful to avoid over indulgence.
  2.  Exercise: This is a weakness of mine. I know I don’t get enough physical exercise, but I do try and walk as much as I can. I still work part-time, so I do get some walking in at my workplace. Also, we live in a second floor apartment, so I’m up and down those stairs a number of times a day. I plan on joining a local fitness club but am waiting for approval from my health insurance company as to which one I can be reimbursed for.
  3.  Spiritual: Although I don’t carry my religious beliefs on my shoulder, a belief in a higher power has always been a part of my life. I count my blessings everyday and thank the good Lord for what I have and what he has helped me get through in my life, the good as well as the not so good times.
  4.  Relationships: My relationship with my family is one of the most important things in my life and I feel a good relationship with them is a big part of my healthy lifestyle. Although we don’t always agree on everything, the connection we have definitely has an overall outcome on both my mental and physical wellness I feel. Relationships with friends are also important. Both my husband and I have friends that we do things with as a couple, but also as individuals.
  5.  Hobbies & Interests: Taking classes, writing, reading, learning and trying new things is something I enjoy very much. In my opinion, this is a very important of my mental well-being. I feel these interests have a big impact on the brain and may even help ward off dementia, which many of us are susceptible to as we age.
  6.  Medical Care: This is probably one of the most important things in regards to a healthy lifestyle. I make sure I get my regular checkups, take any prescribed medications, and see my doctor when I feel I need too. Having a trusting relationship with my doctor is very important to me.

Incorporating all these above mentioned things into my life helps me maintain my healthy lifestyle. Living life to its fullest, loving, and being happy is what makes the world go around for me. I couldn’t ask for anything more, right now.

Source: personal experience