As we age, it’s natural for our bodies to change. As our health needs shift over time, we must consider how to approach wellness to maximize our health and longevity.
Once we’ve reached retirement age and beyond, maintaining a healthy lifestyle might look different than that of a 20-year-old. Maintaining mobility, managing pain, and new dietary needs should all be considered as a part of a holistic approach to health as we age.
Castle Connolly Private Health Partners has developed the SENS Solution Wellness Program, which offers tips to promote healthy aging to keep individuals feeling good while enjoying retirement!
Maintaining Mobility
We’ve heard it repeatedly: A body in motion stays in motion. It’s true! Maintaining mobility becomes increasingly important to lead a healthy and independent lifestyle as we age.
Moderate exercise doesn’t need to be tedious or difficult. Exercise can be fun through an activity you enjoy doing or by inviting friends along with you. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or tai chi can help improve balance, reduce the risk of falls, and keep joints supple.
Stretching is also beneficial in maintaining flexibility and reducing stiffness. Additionally, incorporating strength training into the routine can help support joint health and prevent muscle loss, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis.
When experiencing arthritis pain, managing discomfort becomes a top priority. While there is no cure for arthritis, various strategies can help alleviate pain and improve quality of life.
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential, as excess weight places additional stress on the joints. Low-impact exercises can be beneficial, and it's important to balance physical activity with sufficient rest to avoid overexertion.
It may be beneficial to work closely with a healthcare provider to create a personalized plan that addresses the specific needs and limitations of individuals with arthritis. Members in the CCPHP network can easily manage this with increased connectivity to their physician and personal health coach through the SENS Solution program.
Regular check-ups and adjustments to the treatment plan can help optimize pain management and maintain mobility over time.
Eating a Well-Rounded Diet
As we progress through retirement age, our nutritional needs change. Older adults must be mindful of getting enough protein, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains to meet vitamin and nutrient requirements.
- Protein, especially, is crucial for older adults. Ensuring you eat enough protein-rich foods like meat, eggs, beans, or nuts is critical to prevent the loss of mean muscle mass.
- Older adults have a more challenging time absorbing vitamins. Try consuming foods with vitamin B12. Certain cereals are fortified with this vitamin, and supplements are available to incorporate more B12 into your diet.
A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals supports overall health and empowers retired adults to lead active, independent lives.
Don’t Neglect Your Regular Appointments
You’ve heard this before — go to your primary care physician for a check-up at least once yearly.
You might think this is too often, but regular checkups allow you to avoid future health issues. Preventative care is an excellent step in staying healthy for years to come.
Concierge care is an excellent option for those looking for high-touch care, with more frequent touch points with their primary care provider throughout the year. CCPHP’s directory of concierge Physician Partners is a helpful tool for finding a concierge program that fits your needs as a patient.
Related Post: What is Concierge Medicine?
A concierge care program offers more connectivity to your physician. Members can use extended visits, same- and next-day appointments, direct contact with physicians, and telemedicine connections to stay in close contact with their providers.
Staying Mentally Sharp
Just as important as staying physically in shape, it’s essential to give our minds conditioning to stay sharp, too.
There are countless options for keeping your mind occupied.
Playing games like sudoku, cards, or board games are all great ways to stimulate your brain while staying entertained.
Besides not showing up to work, one unique benefit of retirement is the opportunity to learn new things at the collegiate level. Many universities offer discounted classes to seniors who want to enroll in a few credit hours to learn a new skill. This is an excellent opportunity to learn a new language or take a history class!
Stay Healthy With Help and Support
After retirement, everyone’s health journey is different. Get a personalized health and wellness plan with the help of your CCPHP Partner Physician and the resources through the SENS Solution Wellness Program.
