You can take control of your life using the following tips.

1. Eat Healthy and Hydrate
Maintaining a healthy diet as you age is essential for living well

Our digestive systems slow down with age, so important vitamins and high-fiber foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are key. Plant based diets provide a good
source of fiber and antioxidants which have been shown to slow aging, lower the risk of health problems, improve failing vision, and curb cancer. We should also limit our consumption of sugary and fatty foods, which can trigger  inflammation and lower our immune system. Another health secret for seniors is to stay hydrated.
Seniors tend to generally feel less thirsty. We should be sure to drink plenty of water to stay energized and to avoid constipation or urinary tract infections.

Lack of appetite is a common cause of poor senior nutrition.

There can be many causes, but researchers concluded that simply improving the “mealtime ambiance” and “enhancing the flavor of food” can work wonders for a senior’s appetite. Sharing mealtimes with friends or family, having visually appealing food and creating a nutrition schedule could help.
2. Focus on prevention
Preventive care visits can help seniors missing a serious diagnosis.
Medical Check Ups
Screenings for cholesterol levels, colon cancer, heart problems, etc. are important.
Vision Check Ups
Most people notice a change in their vision by age 50. Seniors who wear glasses should have their prescription checked regularly, and they should have their eyes screened for issues such as glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Having the right pair of glasses can also reduce a senior’s chance of falling.
Dental Visits
The risk for cavities goes up with age. Oral health is directly related to overall health and many mouth infections can be linked to serious health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, we should see a dentist every 6 months.
3. Manage Medications
It’s important for us to review each prescription with our physician on a regular basis. Consider possible drug interactions and take note of new symptoms or side effects, such as allergic reactions, drowsiness, or loss of appetite . Pay extra attention when changing or starting medications.
4. Get Enough Sleep
Frequent waking and insomnia are common among seniors.
Sleep reduces our stress level, and is also helps the body repair itself. Getting sufficient sleep
can result in a stronger immune system. Sleep is also important as we get older because it can
improves memory and concentration.
Creating a regular sleep schedule can help you to improve your health. Simply waking up and
going to bed at the same time can help your internal clock to sync to your daily schedule.
Avoid taking naps during the day, and stay away from alcohol or caffeine in the evening. It
may also help to turn the lights down in the evening to spur drowsiness and make sure our
bedroom is comfortable, cool, and quiet. Aim for at least seven and a half to nine hours of
sleep per night.
5. Remember cognitive health and socialize.
Research suggests that staying mentally active and learning new skills may even lead to
improved thinking ability. You can engage in various engaging activities or brain games (e.g.,
enjoying crossword puzzles, reading, writing, enjoying art and music and trying new hobbies)
to stimulate our minds and thus ward off cognitive decline.
Research shows that isolation and lack of socialization among seniors leads to low selfesteem, difficulty coping, and higher levels of stress. Persistent inflammation caused by
stress can lead to serious health outcomes, including: cardiovascular disease, metabolic
disorders and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
There are many opportunities for seniors to stay connected such as participating in local
senior activities, volunteering in the community, etc. Time spent with family, grandchildren
and friends can help to combat loneliness and leave seniors feeling more positive…the best
medicine of all.
6. Stay physically active
Exercise is important in all stages of life, but especially for seniors. Staying physically active
can help you maintain a healthy weight, avoid chronic health problems and make it easier for
you to complete activities of daily living.
Along with alleviating depression, physical activity can improve energy levels, memory, and
sleep. But what are the best exercises for seniors? Healthy seniors should focus on
incorporating a combination of aerobic, balance, strength training, and other low-impact
exercises such as yoga and walking. Be sure to talk with a health care professional to find out
what type of exercise program best suits your needs.
7. Maintain a Spiritual Practice
Religion and spirituality can play a role in people’s lives, especially for the elderly. More than 90% of elderly people identify themselves as being religious/ spiritual. Religion and spirituality are seen by elderly people as positive forces that help them face life with resilience
and hope; improve relationships; and cope with life stresses such as financial or health concerns. Another great benefit to older people who belong to a religion or spiritual group is a sense of community. They avoid social isolation; they do volunteer activities that keep them
connected with others; they have people who inquire as to their health and well-being with whom they can exchange ideas and information. Speaking with a religious leader, such as a pastor, can provide comfort to those who are sick or lonely. It may also provide hope for those who suffering from a chronic illness, are grieving a loss or trying to overcome depression. There is growing evidence that religious or spiritual practices may be associated with better physical health and greater longevity as well as better mental health and greater social support. Spiritual people literally live longer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Less cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and lower blood pressure are found among the religious or spiritual. What is more, religious or spiritual people tend to exercise more, eat better, smoke less, use their seat belts, and attend preventive screenings.