Getting older brings with it a few extra challenges, but your golden years can also be your best. They’re called golden years for a reason! You have decades of life experience and time to relax and enjoy yourself. Bring extra confidence to your aging process by learning the best-kept secrets to happy and healthy aging.
Maintain a Social Calendar
Make sure you see your friends and family often, whether virtually or in person. Loneliness causes physical health problems such as inflammation and an increase in stress hormones, as well as clinical depression. If you live in a community that sponsors activities like book clubs and movie nights, then be a part of them! Make new friends and keep in touch with your longtime loved ones.
Make Healthy Eating Fun
Keeping your diet packed with nutrients is important no matter what age you are, but it’s particularly important as you grow older. Eat as many whole foods as possible—nuts, legumes, fresh fruit, and veggies. Make a game out of it! See how many natural colors of the rainbow you can fit into what you’re eating. For example, bananas, blueberries, fresh spinach, and tomatoes are all colorful and rich in vitamins.
Demystify Exercise
Maybe you’re not quite up to a half-marathon or pickup basketball game anymore, but you can still have fun moving your body and keeping it in shape. Take up swimming or do your exercises in the pool; the water supports your joints as you move and keeps the impact low. Water aerobics classes are a great way to get your blood pumping while taking care of your body.
Keep Your Mind Sharp
None of us is exempt from the occasional “senior moment,” but keeping your brain active can help stave off symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Join a book club to incentivize yourself to read more. Hone your chess skills by challenging a friend to a game. Even playing puzzle games on your phone can keep your mind moving.
Enjoy your golden years and stay healthy by making a few simple choices every day. These are a few of the best-kept secrets to happy and healthy aging. Be sure to let your older friends in on these tips, too!