What is Healthy Aging Month?
The desire to be healthier and happier isn’t just for young people. Seniors can benefit from implementing new habits toward improving their own health and wellness. September is Healthy Aging Month, a time when people can focus on their aging loved ones and what they need in their lives to improve their health. While there definitely are challenges associated with aging, it’s easy to make changes and enjoy better health no matter what.
Hire a Home Care Provider
Family caregivers can hire a home care provider to be a companion and helper for their aging loved one. As elderly people struggle to do daily tasks on their own, they may not be willing to ask for help. A professional home care provider can aide in housekeeping, meal preparation, self-care, transportation and more. The home care provider can also be a companion, so the senior doesn’t feel as isolated or lonely.
Improve Their Diet
It’s never too late to focus on a nutritious diet. Seniors with a healthy body are better able to resist disease, heal faster from illnesses and minimize age-related chronic conditions. Home care providers can fix meals that have more fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Snacks are often highly processed with too much sugar or salt. Instead, nuts, vegetables and dip, fresh fruit and low-fat versions of favorite foods are a better choice.
Start Exercising Regularly
It can be very difficult for elderly adults to find the time and motivation to exercise, especially if they have mobility issues. However, exercise for seniors is possible no matter what abilities they have. Common exercises for the elderly include tai chi, chair aerobics, water aerobics, yoga and walks. A home care provider can certainly help support and motivate an elderly adult as they take on more activities.
Make Socializing a Priority
Healthy relationships with friends and family members is critical for keeping seniors mentally healthy. Loneliness, grief and isolation can lead to anxiety and depression, and too many elderly adults involuntarily cut down on their social interactions. If seniors can no longer drive, a home care provider can do so. Family caregivers should arrange for one or more outings every week to senior centers, shopping, family events and more.
Get Regular Medical Checkups
Seniors are at a higher risk of developing chronic health conditions and diseases so it’s important for them to get examined by a physician regularly. Early detection of illnesses like arthritis, diabetes, cataracts, heart disease, and more means that treatments can begin sooner. The most effective treatments are those that started early in the disease’s development.
It doesn’t have to be Healthy Aging Month in September to shine the spotlight on boosting smart lifestyle habits. In fact, family caregivers can work with their aging loved ones to increase their health and wellness through assistance, diet, exercise, socialization and medical checkups.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Broomall PA, please contact the caring staff at True Direct Home Health Care today.
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