A myth-busting study mentioned by the American Psychological Association has offered some insights into senior life, showing that while the majority of seniors report themselves in good health, there are factors that can put their well-being at risk, such as chronic conditions and loneliness. This report highlights why it's essential for Chattanooga, TN, retirees to prioritize their wellness.
So what are protective factors for aging well? We'll explore the main ones in this article, and share some tips on how to stay in the best health as you enter your senior years.
Wellness starts with what you eat, so focus on a healthy diet to protect your well-being as you get older. A balanced diet ensures you get the right level of vitamins and nutrients, keeping bones and muscles strong, joints free from aches and pains, and energy levels high.
Choose a senior living community like Signal Mountain Senior Living, because we are committed to providing high-quality food. Our chefs ensure all our residents have a balanced diet, rich in unprocessed food and tailored to specific dietary needs.
Always aim to get plenty of protein, good carbohydrates, fruit, vegetables, and dairy or dairy alternatives. Speak to care staff about a diet plan if you need support in finding the right balance for your needs.
While eating the right food is crucial to physical health, it's equally vital to maintain a strong body. The best way to do that is to incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Here are some activities you might want to try:
If you are new to exercise, go for an instructor-led class to help guide you on how to exercise safely while getting the maximum benefits.
It's also a good idea to choose fitness options that suit your preference, as you are more likely to stick to a routine you enjoy. Also, bringing along a friend to the class can help you stay committed, as consistency with fitness routines is the key to getting the best long-term wellness benefits.
Looking after the mind and protecting it from mental health conditions is crucial for wellness as you age. There are simple activities you can incorporate into daily life that will help you stay calm and focused, including:
It's even possible to try some online courses or work with a professional therapist. Protecting your mental health helps seniors cope with significant life changes they face as they get older, such as moving home, losing a loved one, or battling health issues.
Practices like mindfulness can also ease day-to-day worries and stresses, helping seniors learn how to stay focused on the present moment and not become preoccupied by what has passed or what might be to come.
Strong social connections are linked to a healthy lifestyle because they help people keep active and encourage a more positive mindset. In your senior years, there are lots of ways you can increase your social circles and maintain connections with others to help protect against loneliness:
These activities not only help you forge friendships but also encourage seniors to stay active, offering multiple benefits. If you are in a senior living community like ours at Signal Mountain, you'll find a range of social opportunities in our exciting weekly events calendar.
Where you live and relax can have a profound effect on how you feel, making the environment crucial for anyone wanting to protect their wellness.
In your senior years, consider opting for a solution that combines practicality with accessibility, making daily life easier, even with mobility issues. Make sure rooms are spacious and uncluttered, with wide entryways and grab handles.
Keep the environment feeling calm and welcoming with simple, tasteful decor, lots of natural light, and well-lit rooms. If you are in a senior living community, take advantage of the safety aspect by ensuring you have features like alarm systems to alert staff if you have an issue like a fall.
One way to prioritize wellness in your senior years is by focusing on your cognitive skills. Simple activities that work the brain cells can be enough to protect against age-related issues like memory loss. You could:
One of the most important ways of keeping the mind healthy is by staying social. Regularly connecting with others and joining conversations is as vital to brain health as exercise is to physical health.
Sometimes, the best way to protect your wellness as you age is by asking for help. That might be assistance from a care professional with your daily routine, like help getting dressed in the morning.
It could be helpful to have someone on hand to remind you to take your medication. Always think of professional care support as a way to stay healthy and independent, and never be afraid to reach out to professionals who know how to care for seniors.
Equally important is ensuring you attend all medical check-ups in your senior years. Preventive screening is crucial for early identification and treatment of age-related health conditions.
There is no great secret to protective factors in senior health and wellness. Answers to the question "What are protective factors?" include staying social, keeping fit, eating healthily, and embracing an active and busy lifestyle.
At Signal Mountain, we make that easy. Come and take a tour of our pet-friendly community in Chattanooga and discover why seniors here live an active and fulfilling retirement, enjoying our stylish living spaces and beautifully landscaped gardens.