5 Meaningful Ways to Improve Quality of Life as You Age

Aging is inevitable. Yet, there is no reason it should be difficult or depressing. You can have a good quality of life well into your senior years. It is important that older adults feel fulfilled with a positive outlook on life. Let’s explore 5 ways to improve your quality of life as you age.

Stay Physically Active

Movement is good on so many levels. Regular exercise, no matter how intense or gentle, helps your body to remain strong and healthy. Physical activity improves cardiovascular health, boosts immunity, relieves stress, and supports bones and joints. It also may help you maintain a desirable weight. Many insurance plans have a Silver Sneakers program that covers the cost of a gym.

Keep Your Brain Sharp

There is merit in the saying “use it or lose it”. You really need to exercise and nurture your brain to stay sharp and engaged. An unused brain can lead to memory loss and depression. Try some of these activities to keep your brain healthy:
• Join a book club and read regularly
• Play games, such as bridge, chess, and crossword puzzles
• Take advantage of continuing education classes and free lectures at the local library
• Volunteer to work with literacy organizations or do some tutoring
• Take on a part-time job, even if it is work-from-home
• Stay connected with friends and family

Address Health Concerns

It is really is important to take advantage of wellness visits to your health care providers, especially those that are covered by insurance. These include annual checkups, colonoscopies, cardiology visits, dental exams, hearing tests, and eye exams. For instance, get hearing aids if you need them to help you with conversations. If you need cataract surgery, get it done and ask your doctor about single dose cataract surgery steroids to help with post-surgery inflammation. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask all of your MDs questions.

Get Plenty of Sleep

It can’t be stressed enough how beneficial good sleep habits are. Many people don’t get adequate sleep, especially as older adults when sleep disturbances are common. Try to go to bed and get up at the same times each day. Strive for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. At the very least, stay in bed for that long so your body can relax. Leave the phone and laptop in another room. Turn the TV off and make your room as dark as possible. Adequate sleep leads to better mood and improved organ function.

Eat and Drink Well

A nutritious diet and good hydration are essential as you age. Some older adults become complacent when it comes to meal preparation. The temptation to heat up processed food in the microwave for convenience is just not good practice. Your diet should include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats. If cooking isn’t your thing, try a healthy meal delivery service. Or, visit the prepared meal counter at your local market and pick up a variety of salads, whole grain dishes, and roasted proteins.

Drink pure or filtered water throughout the day. Water is imperative for hydrating every component of your body, including joints, skin, and arteries. It also helps to keep things moving through the digestive tract.

These are just 5 of the things you can do to improve quality of life as you age. Nurture and care for yourself. You have earned your years with health, wisdom, experience, and connections made along the way. Keep that going by exercising your body and intellect, addressing health concerns, getting adequate sleep, and eating a nutrient dense diet.