As a seniors magazine, we never like to be short on information about health and wellness. It’s not always easy to stay in shape as you get older, but it’s definitely worth the effort. After all, staying fit can help you stay healthy and independent well into your golden years. And if that’s not incentive enough, consider this: staying active can also help prevent age-related health conditions like obesity, heart disease, and even dementia. So how do you go about getting fit and staying fit after 60? Turns out, there are plenty of ways to stay in shape – no matter what your age or physical condition. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.
Why Is Fitness Important as We Age?
The benefits of fitness are well-documented, and they extend to seniors as well. Exercise can help improve mood, increase energy levels, and boost cognitive function. It can also help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and keep bones and muscles strong. And that’s just the beginning – research has also linked exercise with a longer lifespan and a reduced risk of developing age-related conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
So why is fitness important as we age? In one word; prevention. By staying active and keeping your body in good shape, you can help prevent many of the health problems associated with aging.
What You Can Do to Stay Fit After 60
Eat healthy
Another important part of staying fit after 60 is eating healthy. This doesn’t mean you have to deprive yourself – in fact, it’s important to enjoy a variety of healthy foods. But it does mean making wise choices when it comes to what you eat. Try to choose lean protein sources, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. And make sure to avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.
Stay Hydrated
Water is essential for good health, and it’s especially important for seniors. Make sure to drink plenty of water each day, and if you’re not a fan of plain water, try adding a slice of lemon or cucumber. Specifically speaking, it’s recommended to consume at least 7.1 cups of water everyday. Don’t worry you can still have your favorite tea and coffee – just be sure to stick to unsweetened versions.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health, and it’s especially important for seniors. Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep each night. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try making some simple changes to your bedtime routine. Avoid caffeine and nicotine before bed, establish a regular sleep schedule, and keep your bedroom cool and dark.
Stay Social
Yes, being social can often be seen as a form of exercise. While it may not be linked to physical activity directly, socializing is not only good for your mental health – it’s also good for your physical health in a way as well. Research has shown that seniors who stay socially active have a lower risk of developing age-related health conditions according to the CDC. So make sure to stay connected with family and friends, and consider joining a social group or club.
Stay On Top of Checkups
It’s important to get regular checkups from your doctor, once per year to be specific, unless you require more face time with your primary care doctor. This is especially true as we get older. This is the best way to catch any potential health problems early on and to get advice on how to stay fit and healthy.
Don’t Underestimate Strength Training
One of the best things you can do for your health is to build strong muscles. Not only does this help ward off age-related conditions like obesity and heart disease, it also helps improve balance and coordination, which can be important for seniors. There are plenty of ways to strengthen your muscles, including weightlifting, Pilates, and yoga.
Additionally, strength training is important as we get older because it helps to prevent osteoporosis, general frailty, and it helps us to lessen chances for preventable injury. Additionally, when you feel physically strong, that helps to promote emotional and mental health. So really, when we’re staying on top of our strength training, we’re not only keeping ourselves fit and physically healthy, we’re promoting general wellness all around.
If you find it hard to stay on top of strength exercises, make sure to start small and consider working with a trainer, physical therapist, or someone close to you. Exercise doesn’t have to be boring or tedious – in fact, it can be a lot of fun when you find an activity that you enjoy, especially if you’re a senior living in Florida. So try out a few different things until you find something that’s right for you. And don’t be afraid to mix things up once in a while to keep it fun and mentally stimulating.
Getting Fit and Staying Fit After 60 Can Be Enjoyable
As a senior living in Florida, you have the advantage of great weather and endless activities. Let’s get outside and take walks, go for a jog, or even do yoga on a nearby beach. Keep in mind that physical activity can minimize your chances of developing new diseases as well as symptoms of anything that’s underlying. Not to mention, exercise doesn’t have to be work, it can be fun to. Additionally, it doesn’t have to be done alone either. You can workout with family, friends, or sign up for a group class. Stay on top of your health by staying on top of your physical fitness.
