HEALTH TIPS FOR SENIORS

Aging is a natural process and doesn't have to leave you feeling overwhelmed. A positive approach is very important to the aging process. Practicing good health can make you feel more comfortable as you greet the changes that come with aging. "You dehydrate faster now than when you were younger" Getting the proper nutrition and staying active are some ways to enhance your potential for successful aging and ensure you enjoy your golden years. Nutrition Proper nutrition and good eating habits are some of the key components for healthy aging. Good nutrition can prevent or delay the onset of many chronic illnesses such as osteoporosis, diabetes and heart disease. Nutritional needs of older people differ from those who are younger. As you age, your body's metabolism may be less efficient or slower. Also, there may be less absorption and greater excretion of nutrients. Hence, you need to eat more nutrient-dense food. Nutrient-dense food are those that provide substantial amounts of vitamins and minerals and relatively few calories such as whole-grains, vegetables and fruits. Another important part of good nutrition is getting adequate hydration. You dehydrate faster now than when you were younger and as you get older, you have lower levels of saliva and digestive juices. Water makes swallowing food easier, aids digestion and prevents constipation. Aging bodies also hold less water and some medications may cause water loss. Drink six to eight glasses of fluid daily, depending on your height and weight as bigger people require more fluid. Water can come from drinking water, fruit juices, milk and soups. Try to limit the amount of caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea as they can cause you to lose body water. Have a drink available around mealtimes and take water breaks throughout the day. People often wonder whether it is necessary to take vitamin and mineral supplements. Unless directed by your doctor, vitamin and mineral supplements are rarely necessary if you eat enough food to meet your energy needs. It is also important that you do not use supplements in place of food or in extremely high amounts. Be sure to check with your doctor or dietitian before starting any dietary supplements or when you have specific health problems or changes. Physical Activity Exercise is important for all age groups, particularly for the elderly. Many older people do not exercise as they think of it as a chore, boring or disappointed by the lack of immediate results. Regular physical activity not only make you look and feel better, it can help your body function more effectively in many ways, protect you from chronic illnesses and lower your chances of injury. There are many types or exercise that you can do to enhance your level of physical activity. Choosing a type of exercise that is fun and enjoyable will enrich all aspects of your life and easily maintained over the long term. Walking is a great way to exercise. If you find it boring, walk together with a partner and carry on a conversation while you're walking. You can also try different exercise programs such as joining swimming or tai chi classes and taking up a hobby like gardening. Try to work on making exercise a regular part of your day and build on your daily routine. However, before starting an unfamiliar activity or new exercise program, you should always get help from your doctor to decide which type of exercise suits you best and discuss on any special conditions you might have. It is also important that if you feel pain or discomfort, you should stop the activity, take a break and consult your doctor. Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of facts, the articles and information above must never be construed as giving professional health advice and as such Kurnia does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in the above article. Kurnia cannot be held responsible for any losses, injury or death resulting from the use of the above information.