Aging in Place – A Series: Health

It’s common to hear a laundry list of recommendations from our doctors during each visit – exercise more, eat healthier, get more sleep, reduce stress, and so on. These suggestions are not new to us, yet many struggle to follow them consistently. We may make excuses, lack motivation, or not prioritize our health as we should. But it’s important to remember that these recommendations are not just arbitrary suggestions; they are essential for our overall well-being and can significantly impact our quality of life.

Take, for example, the recommendation to exercise regularly. Physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and improving our mental health. Yet, many of us find it challenging to carve out time in our busy schedules for exercise. However, we can gradually incorporate more physical activity into our daily routine by making small changes such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, going for a walk during lunch break, or scheduling workout sessions with a friend.

Similarly, the advice to eat a balanced diet is often met with resistance due to convenience, taste preferences, or lack of nutrition knowledge. However, choosing nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can give our bodies the essential nutrients they need to function optimally. By making mindful choices at each meal and snack, we can fuel our bodies properly and support our overall health and well-being.

When contemplating your current state of health, it’s vital to consider the steps you can take to promote a healthy future for yourself. One of the key aspects of maintaining good health is a balanced diet. This means consuming various nutrients from different food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A balanced diet can give your body the necessary vitamins and minerals to function optimally and help prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

In addition to eating well, engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for overall health and well-being. Exercise helps you maintain a healthy weight, improves your cardiovascular health, boosts your mood, and reduces the risk of developing various health conditions. Whether going for a brisk walk, taking a dance class, or hitting the gym, finding an activity you enjoy can make it easier to incorporate exercise into your daily routine.

Managing stress effectively, getting routine check-ups, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption are also important factors in maintaining good health. Stress can affect your physical and mental health, so finding healthy coping methods, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or practicing mindfulness, is essential. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help detect any potential health issues early on, allowing for prompt treatment. Making informed choices and prioritizing your well-being can enhance your quality of life and enjoy a healthier future.

For this topic, consider the following:

• I do not smoke, or I have a plan to stop in the future.
• I schedule regular appointments with my doctors (general, eye, dental, hearing, etc.).
• I keep physically active with at least 30 minutes of daily exercise.
• Over the last 6 months, I have maintained a healthy body weight.
• I work with my doctors on my pre-existing medical conditions and how they will affect me as I age.
• My doctors are aware of my family’s medical history and advise me how to manage these as I age.
• I have legally identified my wishes for care if I become incapacitated.

Please share your comments about this topic below.