According to the National Council on Aging, a 65-year-old can expect to live another 18.9 years on average. Good health can ensure independence, productivity, and security as we age.
However, millions of seniors still struggle with chronic diseases, physical inactivity, and behavioral health issues. These struggles can affect your independence and quality of life.
Instead of letting your health decline, make holistic changes to improve your health while living in Latrobe, PA. Not sure which wellness activities for adults to prioritize? Read on for tips for healthy aging in PA.
In a poll conducted by the American Osteopathic Association, seniors were asked about their exercise, sleep, and work habits. About 54% rated their overall health and wellness as "good." Only 17% rated their health as "excellent."
When asked where their lives needed the most improvement, the majority (42%) cited their physical health. To improve your physical health, consider your:
Here are a few senior wellness ideas that can improve your physical health as you age.
Each week, the CDC recommends that seniors get:
Aerobic activities are continuous and rhythmic. They're meant to get your heart pumping. Consider:
You can find fun aerobic activities through your senior living community's fitness program. Ask friends to join you. Challenge each other or ask them to hold you accountable to attend regularly.
Muscle mass decreases as much as 8% per decade after the age of 30. The rate of decline is higher after the age of 60. Losing muscle mass can contribute to disability and increase the risk of slip-and-fall accidents.
Decreased muscle mass is also accompanied by a progressive increase in fat mass. Changes in body composition can increase the incidence of insulin resistance. Joint stiffness may increase while bone density may decrease.
Try lifting weights twice a week to improve your muscle mass. You can also complete exercises that use your body weight for resistance (like sit-ups).
Balance exercises may reduce your risk of falling. Try strengthening your back, leg, and ab muscles.
Micronutrient deficiencies affect an estimated two billion people worldwide. They contribute to infections and are associated with severe illness and death. Common deficiencies include:
A deficiency may reduce the body's ability to fight infections or impair cognitive function. It may increase your risk of:
Many Americans don't meet their nutritional needs through food alone. About 75% don't consume the recommended intake of fruit, while 80% don't eat enough vegetables.
Prioritize eating whole foods to improve your nutritional intake. These include:
Explore your senior living community's dining program to discover nutritious dishes. You can develop a meal plan made with your nutritional needs in mind.
Ask friends to join you for meals. Their presence may encourage you to make healthy decisions.
Seniors need seven to nine hours of sleep each night.Napping and having poor sleep patterns may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in older adults. Unfortunately, 35% of US adults say they get less than seven hours of sleep.
Consult a doctor if you're struggling to get enough sleep. They can determine if you have an underlying health condition. Otherwise, try adjusting your sleep environment by:
Sleep can improve your mental, emotional, and physical health. It's involved in different bodily processes, including:
Poor emotional health can affect your mental and physical health. Seniors are more vulnerable to poor emotional health due to:
Here are some ways you can improve your emotional health.
Seniors are more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation. This may increase your risk of:
Explore your senior living community's events and activities calendar to connect with other seniors. Maintaining strong relationships can give you a sense of belonging. It may enhance your outlook and quality of life.
Meditating involves focusing your attention on the present moment. This practice may help improve your emotional resilience.
You can find guided sessions through your senior living community's wellness program. Otherwise, use an app.
Journaling can help you explore your thoughts without fear of judgment. It may relieve stress and improve your self-awareness. Try writing for 15 minutes a day.
Socializing with other seniors can benefit your emotional, physical, and mental health. Here are some aging support activities you can enjoy through your senior living community.
Your senior living community may offer a mix of activities, including:
Completing projects can trigger a sense of accomplishment. These activities can add more enjoyment to your life.
A support group can offer guidance when you're navigating grief, a chronic condition, or another situation.They can offer coping techniques to help you through this time. Explore your senior living community for more helpful resources.
As you explore these wellness activities for adults, remember: you're not alone. Consider reaching out to other seniors in Latrobe.
Our team at Barnes Place Personal Care is here to provide support. We offer individual care plans to meet each resident's needs.
Engage in invigorating activities, enhance your health through our wellness program, and socialize with other seniors. Our services can help you thrive in mind and body. Contact us now to schedule a tour.