May 17, 2019 3 min read

The memories you make with loved ones are precious. But how can you ensure that you are around to make more? If you are an older adult concerned about your health, you will be happy to know that you can take steps to improve it. In fact, here are a few simple ways that seniors of all ages can boost their quality of life and possibly live longer.

 

Double-Check Your Health Care Coverage

 

Before you dive into improving your health, you should make sure you have the right health care to fit your needs. Even if you already have Medicare coverage, it is still a good idea to go over the details of your plan and review Medicare Advantage plans that may be available to you. If you have not researched Medicare Advantage plans before, you could be missing out on additional benefits that may provide coverage for dental care as well as your vision. So, take a look at your current Medicare plan and then click here to learn about Medicare Advantage plans available from Aetna that could benefit you.

 

Be More Mindful of Your Mental Well-Being

 

Getting the healthcare coverage you need can give you peace of mind. However, you also need other ways to manage your mental health. Mental health impacts seniors and their quality of life in many ways, and often these issues go unnoticed. You may think that worry and depression are normal parts of aging, but in reality, these can be signs of a treatable mental health condition. So, check in with yourself every now and then, or consider checking in with an online counseling service. Online therapy can be beneficial for seniors because you don’t even have to leave your home to get the help and advice you need for your mental well-being.

 

Take Better Care of Your Brain Health

 

Certain cognitive functions tend to decline as you enter into your senior years. Having a hard time remembering appointments or new names is normal for the aging brain. However, serious cognitive decline can make it difficult for older adults to carry out daily tasks and stay in control of their lives. A healthy lifestyle can certainly help preserve these key brain functions for longer. Playing memory games can also help you improve your ability to recall facts and multi-task. Puzzles and crosswords are fun ways to develop your memory and cognitive skills, but try to switch your favorites up to keep your brain active and healthy.

 

Keep Your Body Strong, Healthy and Balanced

 

Having a healthy brain can help you think better, but having a healthy body can actually help you live longer. Some research even links diet choices to longevity. Fortunately, those choices don’t have to be big to make an impact. Making small, healthy choices, such as eating more vegetable and fruits, can have significant positive impacts on your lifespan. You can also cut out red meat a few times a week to boost your overall health. Try a few easy vegetarian recipes to incorporate more vegetables and healthy grains, rather than red meat and processed foods.

Make Time for Hobbies That Keep You Happy

Want a healthy way to add more vegetables to your life and get more physical activity? Well, gardening is a great way to grow your own healthy foods while working out your body and mind. Caring for plants and creating beauty in your yard decreases levels of stress and anxiety, but all that moving around increases your blood flow to keep your heart in shape. Having any kind of hobby is a good way to release stress and stay active as you grow older. You can pursue an old favorite or try a new hobby to increase your quality and love of life. Some hobbies help your brain as well, so don’t be afraid to color or try some origami!

Treat Yourself to a Massage

Certain hobbies can promote relaxation, but another wonderful method that helps relieve anxiety is massage. Studies have shown that regular massage treatments can also reduce pain and inflammation, as well as digestive issues and insomnia. Though they shouldn’t replace your doctor-prescribed medical care, massage can be an effective addition to your overall health regime.

Living a longer life means spending more time with the people and things you love. So, show yourself some love by taking better care of your mental and physical health.

 

Photo Credit: Pexels


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.

--> -->