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Many seniors focus on their physical health, often overlooking their mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. As a result, they don’t have the highest quality of life. Taking a holistic approach to healthy aging will benefit them in countless ways.
Understanding Holistic Health
Holistic health focuses on treating the entire individual. It addresses every aspect of the human experience, as these elements are interconnected and play a role in the person’s overall well-being. By adopting these healthy aging practices, individuals can experience a noticeable improvement in their quality of life.
Physical Activity
Remaining physically active is essential at any age. Seniors who exercise regularly tend to maintain their independence for longer, as they experience increased mobility and overall well-being. They reduce their risk of injuries and accidents, and exercise also benefits their brain. Regular physical activity enhances attention, problem-solving and other cognitive functions.
Seniors should engage in strength training to maintain strong muscles and aerobic exercise to enhance their cardiovascular health. Jogging, swimming and dancing will strengthen the heart and lungs while improving blood circulation. Flexibility exercises can help alleviate stiffness and pain associated with inactivity, as well as protect the joints from injury. Adults also need to engage in balance exercises regularly to improve their coordination and build strength.
At a minimum, seniors should engage in 150 minutes of physical activity per week. However, more is always better. Seniors who engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity for at least 300 minutes per week tend to live longer.
Nutrition
A healthy diet is also essential for healthy aging. Seniors need fewer calories than younger generations, but their nutrient needs change as they get older. Metabolic changes, age-related loss of bone mass and muscle, and less physical activity can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Older adults need nutrient-dense foods to make every calorie count.
Seniors need four to five servings of fruits and vegetables every day to reduce the risk of chronic disease. Cutting their intake of sugar, salt and unhealthy fats will improve their health, and older adults need to drink plenty of water to remain hydrated. A diet high in protein helps seniors retain the muscle mass they have, so protein should be a part of every meal.
Cognitive Health
Every person must protect their brain health. Cognitive health tends to decline in older adults due to lifestyle factors, environmental conditions and genetics. Mental health is also essential as a person ages, because someone who is mentally healthy can better manage stress and reduce the risk of physical health issues.
Changes occur in the brain as people age. Blood flow and communication between neurons may decrease. The parts of the brain responsible for learning can shrink over time, and many seniors experience inflammation. Natural brain changes may impact cognition in anyone, including healthy seniors. Lifestyle changes can help protect a person’s cognition and mental health. These changes include quitting smoking and drinking alcohol, and taking part in mentally stimulating activities routinely.
Holistic Health Approaches
Seniors should consult with their medical teams to learn about which holistic treatments may be beneficial. Some individuals benefit from chiropractic care, while others experience improvements with Reiki. Acupuncture and Tai Chi are additional options that a person may want to consider, with their medical team’s consent.
Every person, regardless of age, will benefit from taking a holistic approach to their health. Doing so helps enhance overall health and well-being at any age. However, it is especially beneficial for seniors, enabling them to enjoy a higher quality of life.
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