Reaching sixty means we should start caring more about health. We may want to improve our diet or ensure we’re the healthiest we can be. There are many things we can do to improve our lives when we reach these goals. Here are 18 daily habits to drop.
Limiting Physical Activity
The NHS writes, “Older adults should do some type of physical activity every day. It can help to improve your health and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.” It may not be a great idea to run 3 miles each day, but light exercises such as walking or yoga can help keep you healthy.
Ignoring Good Nutrition
You may want to start improving your nutrition and adding more fiber to your diet. This can come in the form of vegetables or whole grains. Fiber will keep your digestive system working correctly, limiting your bloating and stomach pains. You should also ensure you’re drinking enough water and taking supplements so you know you’re consuming all the required nutrients.
Overlooking Mental Health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. You can keep on top of it through activities such as journaling, meditating, or just talking with a loved one when you feel you need it. Mental exercises such as brain puzzles will also work your mind each day and keep it healthy.
Neglecting Sleep
Going to bed at the same time each night will ensure that you always get enough sleep. This is important to give you enough energy throughout the day and allow your brain and body to work to their best ability. Try to avoid caffeine before bed and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Skipping Health Screenings
It’s important to attend all health screenings. These are what will give you an early diagnosis of any health conditions and the best chance of treatment. If you already have a chronic condition, then it would need to be monitored to ensure it isn’t getting worse.
Smoking
Smoking can cause so many serious conditions. This is supported by Element Care, which writes, “Smoking is linked to a higher risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults and has also been connected with increased risk of macular degeneration, cataracts, hearing changes, and decreased abilities in smell and taste.”
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Try to limit your intake of alcohol to just one drink a day. It can have many negative effects on an aging body, especially if you’re on medication. If you think you’re drinking too much and want to cut down, you can try speaking to a healthcare provider who can help make quitting easier.
Overlooking Dental Health
You should visit the dentist every six months to ensure your teeth and gums are the best they can be. You should also practice good dental hygiene by brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash. Poor dental health can affect your overall health.
Poor Posture
Supportive seating can go a long way toward making sure you maintain good posture. If your body is properly aligned, then you’ll avoid any of the physical pain that comes with aging. You may want to adjust any living spaces to keep you as comfortable as possible.
Not Managing Stress
Stress can cause many issues with our health. Along with emotional symptoms, we can also have increased headaches, stomach pains, and loss of sleep. To prevent this, you can incorporate relaxation methods into your everyday routine, such as meditation, or seek professional help if it becomes too overwhelming.
Wearing Inappropriate Footwear
Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle writes, “Shoes that are ill-fitting or non-supportive can create pain and countless other complications, not only in your feet but all over the body.” To avoid any pain, choose shoes that are comfortable and will support you, especially if you walk a lot.
Eating Too Much Salt
Too much salt can lead to increased blood pressure and heart disease. Reducing your intake will have many health benefits, which you’ll soon start to notice. If you enjoy flavorful foods, you could think about incorporating more spices and herbs into your meals—you’ll soon notice how little salt you need.
Failing to Hydrate
Drinking at least two liters of water each day is going to have so many health benefits. Dehydration can cause headaches and tiredness and upset the balance of minerals and salts in your body. You can also include foods with high water content in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains such as rice.
Ignoring Skin Health
Applying sunscreen every day can have many health benefits, with the main one being preventing skin cancer. It’ll also slow down the signs of aging. Try to avoid going out in the sun during peak hours, or sit in the shade or under an umbrella. You should also moisturize daily to keep your skin as supple as possible.
Not Embracing Technology
Technology isn’t going anywhere, which is all the more reason to embrace it. Things such as smartphones will allow you to keep in touch with family members who don’t live close. Knowing the basics of a computer also means you can use emails and search for things on the internet.
Sticking to Old Driving Habits
The NHTSA writes, “Changes in vision, physical fitness and reflexes may cause safety concerns. People who accurately assess these changes can adjust their driving habits so that they stay safe on the road, or choose other kinds of transportation.” You want to feel comfortable when driving, which can mean sticking to smaller trips.
Holding on to Clutter
Decluttering your home not only helps to make it tidier but also creates a safer environment. It can reduce the risk of tripping and seriously hurting yourself. You could think about donating things you don’t use to charity or even selling items to earn some extra money.
Not Keeping Social Connections
Keeping in touch with friends and family can make you feel more connected to people. You may also want to participate in community events to make new friends and to give yourself something to look forward to. Social connections prevent loneliness and feelings of isolation.
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