60 may be the new 40, but to keep up with the 40 and under crowd, there are some things to be more mindful of at age 60. Knowing what to avoid and what to encourage as the golden years approach can help keep those years full and vibrant.
Stop Being Lonely
Research has found that loneliness can increase older adults’ risk of dementia by 50%. Loneliness causes a stress response in the body, which can lead to inflammation and an impaired immune system. Combat loneliness by socializing regularly with friends and loved ones, joining activity groups, or volunteering.
Stop Skipping Vaccines
Sadly, hospitalizations and even death from the flu or pneumonia increase with age. The CDC recommends that every adult should get an annual flu vaccine. The CDC also recommends two pneumococcal pneumonia vaccines for people 65 and older and two doses of shingles vaccine for people over 50.
Stop Skipping Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure is a critical marker for health. High blood pressure over time can weaken the walls of blood vessels, increasing risks for strokes, heart attacks, and dementia.
Stop Skipping Exercise
The phrase use it or lose it comes into play, especially with age. The benefits of exercise are tremendous. Exercise improves memory, decreases bone loss, and improves sleep. Just a walk with friends or a swim can impact the body.
Stop Over-Drinking
Keep those happy hours in check as your age ticks up. Too much alcohol increases the risk of cancer and heart disease for all ages, but as we mature, there are even more reasons to moderate. Being older can also bring a need for long-term medications that may lead to dangerous interactions with alcohol.
Stop Lifting Heavy-Weights
Getting ripped is no longer the goal past 60. Heaving lifting in mature adults can cause harm. Lift enough to maintain strength for daily lifting and not to compete in body-building competitions.
Stop Eating Sushi, Daily
Fish are a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, but raw fish can be problematic. With aging, the ability to fight bacteria becomes tougher, making consuming sushi regularly something to consider cutting back on.
Stop Jumping out of Bed
While facing the day with vigor is a good thing, easing into a new day can be beneficial to aging joints and muscles. Aging makes soft tissues stiffen and harden. Our body needs a little time to stretch out when we wake up. Doing a few stretches before starting the day could ease discomfort in the morning and set the day on the right foot.
Stop Smoking
Smoking can be one of the most challenging habits to break, but the positive effects for the body are noticeable once broken. Stopping smoking, especially in mature adults, can see immediate benefits.
Stop Getting Too Little Sleep
Good sleep leads to increased cognitive functions and an increase in quality of life. Sticking to a bedtime routine, getting exercise during the day, and avoiding late-in-the-day naps can help sleep health.
Stop Stressing Too Much
Stress has an impact on the body. The “fight or flight” chemicals released during feelings of anxiety can, over time, wear on the body. Combat stress by determining the cause and taking steps to reduce exposure to the stressors. Deep breathing, walks, yoga, and even talking with a friend or loved one can all help reduce stress levels.
Stop Traveling Alone
While seeing new places and having adventures are an excellent way to fill time, there are some considerations to be aware of when traveling solo as an older person. Seniors can be targets to unwelcome attacks when traveling alone. Additionally, if a medical emergency arises, finding and getting help quickly could be a challenge. Consider taking a trip with friends or a travel organization to enjoy wanderlust still but be a bit safer in the process.
Stop Eating Everything & Anything
Metabolisms change with age and begin to slow down in the 60’s. Being mindful of nutrition is a great way to promote health for years to come.
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