To your good health - simple New Year’s tips help with healthy aging

Have you noticed that the numbers in the phone book seem to be getting smaller? Do you find it harder to get down on your knees to look under the bed, and to get up again?

There’s no question that age brings changes to our lives, some of which we would prefer to avoid. Stiff joints can make it harder to get around, and many people find that their short-term memory just isn’t what it used to be. Often, difficult personal situations, such as job pressures or the death of a parent, can add to the negative changes.

But age can bring positive changes too. One survey found that many older people say they have less stress and more time for family, interests and hobbies than they used to. In fact, the vast majority of older people report they are satisfied with their lives.

To a great extent, what older age will be like for you depends on how you live now. It also depends on how you cope with the changes that come your way. You can’t turn back time, but you can take steps to help make the coming decades easier and more pleasant.

Now is the time to make healthy changes a part of your daily life. Here are a few tips to use as we kick off the New Year:

Decide to have an active mind and body – Remember the saying “Use it or lose it.” Challenge your mind with puzzles and learning new tasks, and challenge your body by starting to exercise or mixing up your workout.

Opt to be involved –  Isolation can contribute to depression and other health problems, so keep connected to family and friends. Social connections can help ensure that you have physical and emotional support for what comes your way.

Make the most of your spare time – Do things you enjoy and allow yourself some downtime. Too much stress can bring on a host of health problems.

Practice healthy ways to cope – Believe in yourself, and remember: You can handle whatever comes your way.

Choose a healthy lifestyle  – Try to eat well, stay at a healthy weight, get enough rest, quit smoking and see your doctor regularly.

If you are looking for a health partner to help you make and stick to healthy choices that will keep you vital now and throughout the golden years, try PeaceHealth’s Healthy You program. Healthy You offers resources, information and tools to help you on your wellness journey.

Visit peacehealth.org/healthy-you to learn more and to sign up to receive monthly tips in your inbox.

Article courtesy PeaceHealth