Seniors nearing retirement age often find that they are pulled in many different directions; travel, spending time with family, taking up a hobby they’ve always wanted to try, possibly taking on a part-time job to make ends meet. There are so many things to consider for this next phase of life, and it’s not always easy to know the right path to take, especially if you have health or mobility issues to think about as well.
One of the keys is to take care of your physical and mental health, which can help you get into a routine of good habits that will sustain you for years to come. Ensuring your home meets your changing needs, creating a routine for sleep, eating well-balanced meals, staying hydrated, and getting daily exercise will help you feel good every day and improve your quality of life so you have more energy and better mobility.
Keep reading for some great tips on how to make the most out of life every day.
Modify your home for safety
Our bodies change as we age, and unfortunately, our homes aren’t always set up to accommodate our evolving abilities. The good news is that we can make small modifications focused on safety, accessibility, and convenience that make our lives at home easier. If you don’t have the budget for large-scale home improvements, focus on smaller ones that can be done as DIY projects, such as removing rogue cords on the floor, taping down loose carpeting and rugs, and adding grab bars to tubs and showers.
Focus on Your Needs
Now is the time to focus on what you need, be it physically, mentally, or emotionally. You may have obligations that keep you busy throughout the day, but it’s important to take time for yourself, whether it’s to practice a favorite hobby or make sure you’re staying hydrated when the weather is warm. Learn to listen to your body’s cues; if your joints are aching, put off gardening for another day.
Take Care of Your Skin
You only have one skin, so treat it well. Be sure to put on sunscreen every time you go outside, even if it’s only for 20 minutes, and even if the day is overcast. Wear a hat to protect your face when gardening or doing yard work, and take special care to moisturize just enough. If you suffer from diabetes, your skin may become irritated easily, and too much moisture on the feet can cause lots of issues. Talk to your doctor about diabetes-friendly lotion and about how to take care of your soles, especially during the hot summer months.
Eat Well-Balanced Meals
Eating right can help balance out your physical and mental health; certain foods are rich in the vitamins and proteins your body and brain need to work at peak performance. If you are living with diabetes, talk to your doctor about the right diet for you. Otherwise, eating foods rich in iron, such as dark leafy greens, and sticking with lean meats and nuts will help keep you on the right track for the energy that will get you through the day.
It’s also imperative not to skip breakfast. Not only does it give you the fuel you need for the rest of the day, but it also boosts your metabolism so you can maintain a healthy weight.
Take Medication Only as Needed
Many seniors find that they become dependent on pain medication after surgery or suffering an injury, so it’s imperative that you take your medicine only as directed and only as needed. If you feel yourself becoming depending on it, talk to your doctor immediately. Signs of dependency may include changes in your eating or sleeping habits and hostility or defensiveness when talking about medication use, so it’s important to know the warning signs of substance abuse.
Improving your quality of life can be simple or a bit complex. It all just depends on what your specific needs are, so think about the things that would make you feel better, and make a plan to implement them on a daily basis. Talk to your loved ones and keep communication open so they can help as well.
