Senior citizens are living longer now than ever before. Of course, there are no guarantees in life, but there are some things your loved one can do to increase his or her odds of reaching the age of 100. Share this list with your older family members today. Even if 100 is still several years away, they are sure to feel better by making these lifestyle changes.
1. Continue Working
Most people retire after they reach the age of 65, and many of those people become sedentary, which increases their risk of diseases and obesity. Even if your loved one has retired from a lifelong career, help him or her avoid spending the golden years with nothing to do. Part-time jobs, volunteer work, starting a business, or even an involved hobby like farming can increase longevity.
Aging adults who work past the age of 65 have much lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease. The days, weeks, and months following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be challenging for both seniors and their families. However, these challenges can be made less stressful with the help of caregivers trained in professional Alzheimer’s care. Albuquerque, New Mexico, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one enjoy the golden years while simultaneously managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
2. Keep Moving
In 2014, Carmelo Flores Laura was the oldest documented person in the world. He claimed the secret to his longevity was that he never stopped moving. At 123 years old, the Bolivian herder still got up to walk with his animals daily before he finally passed away. Movement keeps bones, muscles, and even mental health strong and youthful.
3. Sleep More
Human cells need sleep to rejuvenate themselves. If your loved one gets less than 6 hours of sleep a night, it could impact his or her health. Encourage your loved one to sleep more, whether it means setting up a new routine or making the bedroom a little more comfortable.
4. Be More Social
Everyone needs human interaction, but it may be more important for seniors than any other age group. People over 65 tend to be more socially isolated than their younger counterparts, which can lead to depression. Being isolated can also increase the risk of developing mental and physical health conditions. Encourage your loved one to meet new friends, keep in touch with old friends, and even date if he or she is single.
For families living in Albuquerque, NM, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
5. Laugh Frequently
Studies have shown people who laugh more live longer. Perhaps it’s because laughter relieves stress, or maybe it has something to do with not taking life so seriously. Whatever the reason, laughing makes people feel good.
6. Floss Often
Flossing keeps the mouth healthy, and it can also slow the progression of heart disease. Not flossing means leaving dangerous bacteria in the mouth that can enter the bloodstream and cause major inflammation in the arteries. Encourage your loved one to start flossing twice a day.
7. Follow the Mediterranean Diet
Many diets claim they will help people live longer, but studies have shown the Mediterranean diet actually does. The cuisine is loaded with lean protein like fish, healthy fats like olive oil, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Consider buying a Mediterranean cookbook or cooking up some healthy meals for your loved one.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of Albuquerque home care. Services our caregivers provide include transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping. To learn about our high-quality senior care plans, give us a call at 505-798-0800 today.
