Four Key Components of Wellness That Seniors Overlook
August is National Wellness Month, reminding us all to take a closer look at our own health and well-being. Seniors aren’t exempt from evaluating their overall wellness and could actually benefit the most from making a few adjustments to their lifestyle. Although some seniors might think it’s too late to improve their overall health, the fact is that it’s never too late to modify behavior in order to improve one’s health. Seniors still have a lot of control over their health and well-being and every choice they make matters.
As the coronavirus pandemic continues, many seniors haven’t prioritized their health. Fear and anxiety over an unknown future can easily contribute to an inactive lifestyle and lead to mindless eating. Some seniors have cancelled or postponed routine appointments until they feel safe returning to the doctor again. Seniors who aren’t tech savvy may be experiencing feelings of loneliness and isolation as their usual outlets for socializing have turned digital, leaving them behind. If you’re a senior who is feeling like your health and well-being could use a tune-up, here are four key components of wellness you may have overlooked, and suggestions for how you can implement change today.
Strength Training
Most seniors understand the importance of regular exercise and pursue some form of cardio exercise several times a week. However, what seniors tend to miss is the important of building muscle through strength training exercises. They may think that body building is for the youth or only for athletes. Yet, strength training is just as important for a teenager as it is for an older adult. Strength training promotes independence in older age by reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, chronic pain, and even depression. It’s possible to build muscle even as a 70 or 80-year-old, so be sure to incorporate strength training exercises a few days each week. If you don’t know where to start, check out the American College of Sports Medicine for specific exercises seniors can incorporate into their exercise routine.
Skin Care
Another area of wellness that seniors often overlook is their skin care. Yet, our skin is a major organ that has many important functions to perform. It reflects internal health conditions that many seniors are more prone to, such as liver and kidney disease, allergies, and more. Most importantly, our skin is our first line of defense against environmental hazards, including bacteria and viruses. Start prioritizing your skin by applying sunscreen before you head outdoors. When you’re able, schedule a skin assessment appointment with a dermatologist. Discuss which vitamins you should add to your diet to care for your skin, as well as other skin care regimens that you should adapt into your routine.
Hearing
Hearing is another area of wellness that seniors overlook. They may think that some hearing loss is normal with age. They also may not even realize that they are having difficulty hearing, especially if they live alone. Hearing loss can be sudden, but the majority of senior hearing loss happens gradually, over time. According to the National Institute on Aging, one in three seniors between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss, and one in two seniors over the age of 75 have difficulty hearing. If you’re a senior, it’s likely that you may have some hearing loss. It’s important for you to know that you’re not alone and that you should seek addressing your hearing loss. Be proactive about addressing your hearing loss with your primary care physician because this often overlooked in primary care. Recognize that you may not be a great candidate for hearing aids, but there are other approaches to amplify sound that might fit your lifestyle.
Nutrition
Finally, an important area of wellness that many seniors overlook is their nutrition. They either have a low appetite and have difficulty eating enough, or they have trouble saying “no” to foods that they’ve overindulged in throughout their years. Seniors who live alone may find it more convenient to eat fast food or microwave a TV dinner. Certain foods can even present a challenge for seniors who have difficulty chewing. Yet even seniors need key nutrients and vitamins. in order to thrive. Seniors often miss the mark when it comes to consuming enough fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Make nutrition a priority by filling half your plate with fruits and vegetables. Choose leaner meats, such as chicken, fish, or turkey, and limit your consumption of red meat. If you can’t chew your vegetables and fruits, blend them into a refreshing smoothie.
Visiting Angels Jenkintown wants all seniors to make their health and well-being a priority. We are here to support seniors so that they can live safe, independent, and healthy in the comfort of their own home. Whether you want a companion to keep you company when your family cannot visit, or you need help with basic care tasks, we offer a variety of senior home care services that are tailored to meet your individual needs. We are here to help you get back on track with your health and wellness goals. Contact us today by calling 215-938-7201.