While our genetics play a role in how we age, certain things we can readily manage also play a significant role, such as lifestyle factors – think your exercise habits and how well you eat. Healthy aging can be simple, according to experts from the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Palliative Care and the university’s Division of Preventive Medicine. They share eight ways you can manage your health to age well in this piece on the University of Alabama website.
Maintain Your Physical Health
To start, look at how active you are – the key is to keep moving. While there are recommendations, such as 150 minutes a week of moderate to vigorous activity or guidelines such as fitting in 10,000 steps daily, even if you don’t meet those recommended standards, you can still benefit from the activity you do fit into your lifestyle. How to make sure you get up and moving? Find an activity you enjoy, and also look to cross train; look to include a balance of cardio, strength, balance and stretching.
Keep Track of How Nutritiously You’re Eating
As you know, how you eat will impact your health (and aging). Ensure that what you eat overall is well balanced, and limit the saturated fats, trans fats, salt and added sugar in your diet. In general, older adults could often consume more protein in their diets. Interestingly, the UAB experts note that many people in this age group often don’t need to take supplements (often it’s needed if you have a specific health concern). Check your calcium and vitamin D intake as well, as it can sometimes be difficult to get the recommended daily allowance from your diet alone.
Maintain Social Connections
We are social animals, and while we do need to be able to spend time with people our own age, that is, people who understand things in a similar way, spending time with younger people may give your physical activity will keep you more active and engaged. And another way you can maintain a social network: volunteer work. By giving your time to a good cause, you’re creating an opportunity to connect with other people who share the same values as you.
For the other five ways you can better manage how well you’re aging, read the full piece here.
Read more:
Quit This and You’ll Slow Your Brain from Aging
Age Well Physically, Mentally and Socially—Here’s How
New Research Shows That Even Household Chores Can Help Your Heart
