Staying Healthy After Age 55

It’s Never Too Late to Make Healthier Lifestyle Choices

As we age, we face even more health risks. From memory loss to an increased risk of heart disease, now more than ever it’s important that we take good care of ourselves inside and out. If you’re nearing 55 or reaching 56, there are some things you’ll want to know to ensure you stay healthy. Keep reading for tips and tricks to staying healthy at 55 and beyond.

Be Physically Active

Your idea of a perfect day probably doesn’t involve much physical activity, but it should. The health benefits of staying active are endless. Exercise not only minimizes stress, burns excess energy, and improves your cardiovascular health, it also improves your mood and lessens the risk of cancer and other health conditions. One of the biggest hurdles when it comes to exercise is that people simply don’t enjoy it. We see exercise as a chore versus a healthy part of daily living.

As you get older, physical activity is a must. It keeps your bones and muscles strong and keeps you flexible and limber. If exercise just isn’t your thing, find ways to make it enjoyable. Join a group exercise class at the local gym or senior center. Workout with your best friend or a family member so that you have someone to keep you company. It’s also important to remember that running isn’t the only exercise.

If you want a change of pace, try:

• Swimming
• Biking
• Kayaking
• Yoga
• Boxing

There’s no best way to exercise, so make it fun and stick to it. As long as your heart is pumping faster, you’re burning calories and improving your health.

Sex Counts As Exercise Too

One exercise that we didn’t mention is sex, but having fun in bed totally counts as a cardiovascular workout! No matter if you’re 55 of 65, sex is just as exciting as it was years ago. But as we get older, we’re more likely to suffer from decreased sexual function and sexual health. Both men and women are at risk of sexual health issues, so it’s important to discuss any problems with your doctor, no matter how embarrassing or personal it may be.

For men over the age of 55, erectile dysfunction and low testosterone are common. Discuss treatment options and ask for discounts, such as a Viagra coupon, to save you money and get your sexual health back on track.

Aging women should also discuss any issues with their doctor, including decreased sex drive, vaginal dryness, and pain during intercourse.

Make Wise Eating Decisions

If you’re like most people, food makes you happy. There’s nothing better than a delicious meal. But, when it comes to eating, as we get older, we have to be more focused on making healthier decisions. While it’s okay to partake in dessert or junk food every so often, you don’t want to follow a diet of processed or sugary foods. The majority of your diet should consist of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy. A wholesome diet minimizes the risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. When it comes to your eating decisions, always keep your health front and center.

Get Enough Sleep

Even though you’ve got all the time in the world to sleep, chances are that you don’t get enough of it. In fact, more than 35% of all adults sleep less than 7 hours and 40% of those between the ages of 40-59 report short sleep duration. Not getting enough sleep has a direct impact on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Sleep deprivation impacts your productivity, energy levels, weight, and even your emotional balance.

To get better sleep at night:

• Go to sleep and wake up at the same time
• Minimize napping
• Avoid bright screens close to bedtime
• Eat earlier in the evening

By getting enough sleep at night, you can make the best of your days.

Keep Tabs on Your Senses

Aging has a good way of taking the sharpness away from our senses. You may not be able to hear things as well as you did years ago, or maybe you find it hard to focus on the small font in newspapers or magazines. Taste and smell can also be impacted as we get older. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to get your senses back in peak condition. For example, if your hearing is less than optimal, discuss hearing aids with your doctor. To improve your eyesight, consider taking the best vitamins for eyes such as zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

The Bottom Line

In your older years, you’re the star of the show! Don’t let your health fall to the wayside. If you’re 55 or older, now’s the time to take charge of your help. Keep these tips in mind to ensure you’re healthy both inside and out.