Activities that seniors can do to stay fit and healthy at age 60

There’s a good reason why they call it the “Golden Years”. It is not just any new chapter in life, but a milestone that celebrates new beginnings. However, you can also look at it from another perspective. That these years should be looked forward to and embraced as doors to new possibilities and opportunities await. 

You can finally take chances by doing the things you have always dreamt of. To make all these plans and dreams a reality, it is very important to keep our bodies fit and healthy. So here are some tips as you begin your new adventures:

• Regular exercise.

Exercising is highly recommended, especially in maintaining ease of movement, balance, and a healthy heart rate. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends exercising because “it also reduces the risk of dying from heart disease, colon cancer, and type 2 diabetes.” In order to get the benefits of exercising,  you do not need to do strenuous exercises that will leave you too exhausted, such as brisk walking or aerobic exercises. 

• Soak in all that free Vitamin D. 

But before you head out for some sunshine, make sure you protect yourself by wearing protective attire, face mask, and sunscreen. Vitamin D is the main hormone of bone metabolism, which also regulates our immune and cardiovascular systems and lacking it poses a greater risk of frailty in older adults. Frailty typically progresses at 10% for those at age 65 and above, and as much as 50% for individuals at age 85 and above. 

• A proper diet. 

Maintain a proper diet that provides all the nutrients that your body needs.As people age, their nutrient absorption diminishes. According to the National Council on Aging, a healthy meal should include lean protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Food should be high in fiber and low in sodium or salt. So how can you find out which foods are right for you? Well, you can take this fun and simple quiz from MyPlate.gov! Adult nutritional supplements can also provide or substitute the decreased nutrients that your body may lack—helping preserve and strengthen muscle mass, bone density, and heart rate.

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Schedule an annual physical checkup and visit a specialist if you have a chronic illness. Never forget to keep track of your health. If you experience physical changes or symptoms that you never had before, consult your doctor or a medical professional promptly to prevent any potential condition that may worsen over time. 

 

• A healthy mind to go with a healthy body. 

Mental health is just as vital as physical health. Today’s society has shed the stigma of recognizing mental health issues and has gradually progressed in encouraging individuals to seek professional advice or assistance from experts. Seeking treatment for your mental health is much more beneficial and effective than developing coping mechanisms that are destructive such as alcohol, drugs or other harmful addictive habits. 

• Try a new hobby or project that you can sustain and accomplish. 

The American Psychological Association (APA) encourages older adults to continue their passions as well as keeping up with the current times. This also allows us to continue or form social connections and new experiences. 

• Have a strong support system. 

Cherish and nurture your most important relationships. Regularly connect with family and friends even if you are far from each other with convenient and fun communication apps that are perfect for spending virtual bonding time!

This new stage in life may seem intimidating or overwhelming. But it is never too late to care for your health and embrace life to the fullest with the ones we love. Make your golden years your best years to come!