As we get older, maintaining good health becomes more challenging. When the aging process takes over, we have to work harder to stay healthy. Exercising and eating well may become more of a priority if we want to keep our immune systems strong and our bodies active. The good news is, at any age, our bodies and minds can benefit greatly from any activity and healthy lifestyle changes we make. For many seniors, creating a healthier living environment is a great place to start.
Examine Your Refrigerator and Pantry
Creating a healthier environment begins with food. Take inventory of your refrigerator and pantry. Is it full of healthy fruits and vegetables and wholesome snacks like whole wheat crackers and raw nuts? If not, you may want to get rid of all the fattening goodies like ice cream and cookies, potato chips and dips. Replace them with healthy snacks like raw carrots and other veggies you can much on with some homemade yogurt dip. Eating a healthier diet of whole foods, rather than processed ones, will keep you fuller longer, and feeling healthier and more energetic, too.
Create a Healthy Living Space
For some seniors, creating a healthy living space becomes challenging – especially if you are limited in mobility as a result of a hip replacement or other surgery where there is a significant recovery time. If this is the case, and it is a temporary situation, then hiring a cleaning service may be a good option until you are fully mobile again.
If your recovery time is going to be longer, or you will need assistance with household chores like cooking and cleaning, then you may want to consider choosing a senior living environment like an assisted living community. Senior living communities, such as Dogwood Forest, offer living arrangements based on your needs. Whether you need 24-hour assistance, or just some help with cooking or cleaning, assisted living homes have been clinically proven to create positive outcomes in the health and well-being of seniors.
Do the Things You Love
Creating a healthy living environment does not only mean eating well, exercising if you are able, and living in a pleasant space. It also means continuing to do the things you love to do with friends and family. If you enjoy reading, consider joining a book club. If you like to dine out, invite a friend to lunch once a week. Maybe you can even volunteer at your local library or a charity. Keeping your mind stimulated and surrounding yourself with social activities you enjoy will also help keep you happier and healthier in your golden years.
It is true that everyone needs friends their own age, at every stage of life from toddlers to grandparents. When you create a healthy lifestyle and a healthy living environment for yourself, you are ultimately creating a more positive world for those around you as well. Make small changes that you can stick to when it comes to changing your eating habits or exercise regimen. And, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Lisa Coleman shares how living in a happy and healthy environment can affect the overall health of a senior. She recently viewed online how Dogwood Forest, an assisted living retirement community, can be a positive and healthy choice for a senior living in the Atlanta, GA area.
