Getting older doesn’t have to be a negative experience or milestone. You’re not only wiser but you are likely now retired and can truly sit back and enjoy life to the fullest.
What’s most important is that you do not let your health slip through the cracks or ignore your wellness overall. It’s in your best interest to make your health a priority and put yourself first so that you can be happy and well. Review four ways to practice self-care as you age so that you can continue to live a fruitful life and have the energy to do the things you love.
1. Exercise & Eat Right
One way to practice self-care as you age is to exercise regularly and eat right. It becomes even more important to keep your bones strong and healthy as you get older. Consider taking an aerobics or swimming class which will not only help you stay in shape but will get you out of the house. If you can’t or don’t want to cook for yourself then think about using a meal delivery service instead of always eating out.
2. Ask for & Know How to Get Help
You should never let your pride get in the way of asking for help when you need it as you age. The reality is that you may not have the physical or mental strength you once had. Instead, reach out and ask others for help and know how to get the help you need in an emergency situation. One solution is to get a gps personal alarm that you can wear and use to call for help if you should fall or have another type of health emergency.
3. Get the Right Amount of Sleep
Practice self-care as you age by focusing on getting the right amount of good sleep. For instance, do your best to get on a daily schedule where you mix in different activities with rest. You want to avoid napping all day long or staying up too late and not getting the sleep you need to stay healthy and well. Go to bed and get up around the same time each day and limit your naps to twenty minutes or so. Set up your bedroom for optimal sleep by investing in a good mattress and making sure the room is dark enough and at the right temperature.
4. Visit Your Doctor & Take Your Medications
Another way to practice self-care as you age is to be diligent about visiting your doctor and getting the medical care you need when you need it. Schedule regular appointments and make sure you show up to them with an open mind. Hear what the doctor has to say and be honest about how you’re feeling or concerns you may have. Also, get organised and take your medications as prescribed so that you can feel your best and address your health ailments head-on. It may help to get a pill organiser so you know what to take and when to take it to avoid any mistakes.