Taking Good Care of Your Health As You Get Older

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Aging is inevitable, but all of those aches and pains and constant illnesses that many of us assume come with the package of getting older are not necessarily! You see, although we are more likely to have various health issues as we get older, if we take good care of ourselves and take our health seriously, we can minimise the odds of getting any serious illnesses as we get older.

Okay, but how exactly do we take good care of ourselves as we get older?

1. Make Friends with Your Doctor
As you get older, you might already feel like you are seeing the doctor more often than you see your friends and family, but actually, this is a good thing, and you should make regular dates with your doc to get things checked out, even if you feel fine because prevention is always better than cure, right?

If you're over 65, it's always a good idea to enrol in one of the Medicare Advantage plans for this reason because it will mean you can see your doctor, and get good dental and vision care into the bargain, at a price you can afford too. If that was not enough, it will also entitle you to access tons of wellness benefits like hitting the gym, all without your having to worry about juggling all of those different policies and paperwork, and while ensuring you have the coverage you need when you need it most.

2. Get Moving
Exercise doesn't have to mean endless hours on a treadmill, staring at a wall while you wait for the agony to end. As you age, staying active is key to feeling good, but it's all about finding activities you actually enjoy. Love the outdoors? Go for nature walks, hikes, or bike rides. Prefer something social? Join a dance class or start a walking group with friends.

The goal is to get moving in a way that doesn't feel like a chore. Even gentle activities like yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics can work wonders for your flexibility, strength, and mood. Plus, it's a good excuse to buy some fancy new sneakers or a fun exercise gadget you've been eyeing.

3. Prioritize Good Sleep (Because You're Not a College Kid Anymore)
Remember the days when you could stay up all night, crash for a couple of hours, and still function? Yeah, those days are long gone. As you get older, quality sleep becomes way more important. A consistent sleep schedule can help with everything from mood to memory to overall health.

Create a bedtime routine that you actually enjoy—a warm bath, a good book, a cup of herbal tea. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and gadget-free. And if you're struggling with sleep, don't hesitate to bring it up with your doctor. Getting the right amount of rest can make you feel like a brand new person—without the need for a nap halfway through the day.

4. Make Food Your Friend, Not Your Enemy
Eating well doesn't mean giving up all the foods you love. It's about finding a balance that works for you and makes you feel good. Focus on whole foods—think lean proteins, colorful veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats. But don't shy away from the occasional treat. If you love a slice of pie or a bit of chocolate, enjoy it without guilt.

Try new recipes, experiment with flavors, and make cooking fun again. Eating well is about nourishment, not punishment. And remember, if someone hands you a plain rice cake and calls it a “snack,” you have full permission to politely decline.

5. Stay Social
Loneliness can be a real problem as you age, but it doesn't have to be that way. Make an effort to stay social and connect with friends, family, or neighbors. Join a club, take up a new hobby, or volunteer for a cause that's close to your heart. Staying socially active is great for your mental health, keeps your brain sharp, and let's be honest—laughing with friends is the best medicine for any ailment.

And hey, socializing doesn't have to mean going out all the time. A video call with grandkids, a cozy night in with a good friend, or even chatting with fellow book lovers online can make a big difference in how connected you feel.

6. Keep Your Mind Sharp
Keeping your brain in tip-top shape doesn't mean you have to spend hours on Sudoku (unless you love it, in which case, Sudoku away!). There are tons of ways to keep your mind active and engaged, from reading books and learning new skills to playing games and taking up a new hobby.

Try challenging yourself with something you've never done before—like learning a new language, picking up an instrument, or trying a craft. Your brain is like any other muscle: the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Plus, it's a great excuse to start a puzzle collection or binge-watch some documentaries guilt-free.

7. Don't Skip the Sunscreen
By now, you probably know that sunscreen isn't just for the beach. But if you've been skipping the SPF, it's time to make it a daily habit. Protecting your skin from UV rays is one of the best ways to keep it looking healthy and reduce the risk of skin cancer as you age.

So, be sure to use a moisturizer with SPF, wear a hat when you're out and about, and if you're spending a lot of time outside, reapply regularly because the effects will wear off over the course of the day. And if anyone asks why you're being so diligent, just tell them you're working on your “ageless glow.” It sounds fancy and responsible, but it's kind of true because you will look better if you do!

8. Take Advantage of Technology
Who says technology is just for young folks? Embrace the gadgets and apps that can make staying healthy easier. From fitness trackers that count your steps to apps that remind you to take your medication, there's no shortage of tools to keep you on track.

Even simple things like downloading a recipe app or watching workout videos on YouTube can make a huge difference in how you manage your health. And don't be afraid to ask a tech-savvy friend or family member for a little help setting things up—they'll be happy to help (and maybe a little impressed that you're diving into the digital world).

9. Find Joy in the Little Things (Because Laughter Really Is the Best Medicine)
Let's face it, life is short—so why not enjoy it? Finding joy in the little things, laughing often, and not taking yourself too seriously can do wonders for your wellbeing. Whether it's a weekly coffee date with a friend, a cozy afternoon with a good book, or dancing to your favorite song in the kitchen, focus on the moments that make you happy.

And remember, a healthy lifestyle isn't about perfection. It's about balance, laughter, and giving yourself grace when things don't go according to plan. You've earned the right to relax a bit, so enjoy it!

As you get older, you don't have to chase the latest health and diet trends or become obsessed with your health, but you should take a little more care of yourself, and ensure that you are staying as active as you can, eating as well as you can, and staying in touches with your physician. Here's to health and wellness at every age!