Growing old is inevitable, it happens to everyone at some point in their lives. You may be apprehensive about growing old, due to the many conditions and illnesses that are more prevalent when you get older. There are certain aspects of your health and wellbeing that you should be aware of as you get older. Check out the list below to find out more.
Your Diet
When you get older your metabolism slows right down. This means that if you keep eating larger meals throughout the day then it will take longer for your body to digest them. You should instead aim to eat five much smaller meals throughout the day. This way you aren’t as much at risk of putting extra weight on due to your diet. You should aim to eat a healthy balanced diet each day to fend off any risk of weight-related conditions. These include diabetes, strokes, and heart disease.
How Much You Move
As well as focusing on what you eat and how much you eat, it is important to get moving. It can feel like you have the whole world on your shoulders at times but you should move as much as possible. Doing gentle exercises that suit you and your needs will ensure you are burning calories from the food you consume. Exercise also makes you feel better as it releases happy hormones such as serotonin and endorphins. Find something you enjoy doing, don’t make it seem like a chore to work out. There may be a group that you have been wanting to try or gentle exercises such as swimming or yoga will do you the world of good.
Focus On Your Feet
This may seem like a strange one, but it is something that not many people think about during their lifetime. Your feet are what get you from A to B so it is essential you take good care of them. They are often forgotten about and can appear to be in a sorry state, however here are some more reasons to look after your feet. When you get older your bones become weaker, this means you can walk to the shops and come back with a broken toe. Speaking of toes you should also keep an eye on your toenails. It is common for older people to struggle with ingrown toenails that they need expert help with. This is due to the growth of nails slowing down, so toenails will grow thicker and brittle.
Regular Checkups
Finally, it is important that you attend regular checkups with your doctor. You may have pre-existing health conditions which you are monitored for. If so, you can mention any concerns you have with your existing doctor. If they think you need help from other departments then they can refer you internally. If your doctor invites you for annual checkups then you should attend, even if you don’t think there is anything wrong. Doctors and tests are often able to spot something serious before symptoms even start.
