Photo via Pixabay
Quality of Life is Key to Well-Being
Improving your quality of life can occur over a period of many years, or it can be a series of actions that you take at a certain age in order to gain control over your wellbeing. For many seniors, finding the best way to boost their physical and mental health can be tricky; there may be existing health issues at work, or you may not fully understand your health insurance policy and realize what it covers. Knowing how to stay safe and comfortable after retirement will allow you to live your best life and enjoy this time as much as possible.
One of the keys to feeling great at any age is to understand your limits, especially when it comes to physical activity. Moving is important, but in order to do it right, it’s crucial that you take it slowly and stay safe. You’ll also want to take care of your mental health at the same time, which may mean changing your lifestyle a bit or trying something new, such as yoga and meditation.
Below are some important points to remember:
Get Familiar with Your Health Insurance
It’s an unavoidable fact of life for seniors that, sometimes, illness or injury sets in, leading to a hospital stay or a need for home health care. Therefore, it’s essential that you understand your health insurance policy so there will be no nasty surprises down the road. If you have Medicare, look online and do some research on your coverage — include what’s available in your state — and consider supplemental insurance if you need help with prescription medication or with paying for a hospital or nursing home stay.
Daily Exercise Is Imperative
Daily exercise is an important part of any senior’s life, as it helps to prevent health issues and can help boost your mood while reducing the symptoms of depression or anxiety. Look for a workout that fits your specific needs, such as a gentle yoga regimen or a sport that allows you to incorporate fun into the day. Golf is a popular sport for many seniors because it’s low-impact and mixes fresh air with activity; just make sure you have the right tools for the game. If you prefer to stay indoors, Excy is a great way to stay in shape and can help you reach your cardio goals and increase your strength, both of which are essential to your overall well-being.
Get Involved
Many seniors find that after retirement, they face loneliness or a sense of dissatisfaction due to no longer having a steady job to go to every day. Staying social and active within your community is one of the best ways to beat those feelings, so look for opportunities to volunteer, get involved with your church, or help out in your area. You might also consider finding a part-time job doing something fun, such as working as a tour guide.
Take Control of Your Diet
Your health and well-being are strongly connected to your diet, so it’s important to take a look at what you’re eating and make sure it’s serving you well. Talk to your doctor to get an idea of what you need the most of; for instance, many seniors need to boost their protein intake, while others prefer to focus on dark leafy greens, nuts and berries, and lean meats in order to reduce inflammation and keep joints healthy. Think of your diet as a way to keep your energy up, and make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.
Improving your quality of life shouldn’t be a stressful undertaking; think about your needs — both in terms of the present and future — and take control by staying active, trying new things, and making sure your daily routine works for you. With a few simple changes to your lifestyle, you can boost your physical and mental health in no time.
About Our Guest Author
Jason Lewis is a personal trainer, who specializes in helping senior citizens stay fit and healthy. In 2002, Jason became the primary caretaker for his mother after her surgery. He realized, as he helped her with her recovery, there is a special need for trainers that can assist the seniors in our community. He worked with his mother’s doctor, as well as other personal trainers, to create programs that are considerate to the special health needs of those over the age of 65. Visit his website for more information.