According to an article in Frontiers in Psychiatry, 20% of adults aged 60 and above experience mental health issues. Healthy habits for older adults reduce these mental health disparities.
Every August, we celebrate National Wellness Month. This is a time to encourage healthy behaviors that manage stress in seniors living in Newton, NC.
Newton, NC, is a small city with a hometown and scenic feel. It has a lot of cultural events, parks, and exhibits, making it a perfect home for older individuals.
How can seniors celebrate National Wellness Month to support emotional health, physical activity, and connection? Let's find out below.
Exercise reduces anxiety and stress, improves quality of sleep, and lowers the risk of falls. Seniors who engage in physical activity regularly are likely to lead longer and healthier lives. Below are some active aging tips to support physical exercise during National Wellness Month:
Focus on activities that promote flexibility, balance, and strength. These include walking, gardening, swimming, and stretching.
TerraBella Newton Senior Living Community has a Dimensions Health and Wellness program that includes balance and cardio classes, schedules stretching, tai chi, and yoga. These activities strengthen and nurture the body, soul, and mind.
Another habit that encourages senior wellness in Newton, NC, is eating nutritious meals. Healthy eating strengthens your bones and supports your muscles. This promotes independence and balance in older individuals.
Nutrients found in healthy fats, vegetables and fresh fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains boost immunity in aging adults. These foods also lower your risk of contracting chronic health conditions such as obesity, stroke, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and some types of cancers.
If you prepare your food, opt for healthy options. However, if you don't feel like cooking, you can enjoy nutritious and delicious meals at TerraBella Newton. The Sensations Dining Program at the assisted living community is available for all residents and provides a high-quality experience.
During National Wellness Month, challenge yourself by trying a new activity that you've always wanted to learn. Experimenting with new things is a great way to meet new people and stimulate your brain. Below are a few ideas you can consider:
By including new activities in your daily routine, you'll have something exciting to look forward to. This avoids the habit of doing similar things every day, which can cause boredom and loneliness.
As you grow older, you'll find yourself spending most of your time alone. Unfortunate events such as the death of a spouse, loss of income, and poor health can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Increased social isolation puts you at high risk of health issues like cognitive decline, heart disease, and depression.
To enhance emotional balance in aging, schedule weekly, daily, or biweekly video chats or phone calls with friends and family members. Additionally, you can take part in senior-friendly events or a volunteering program where you engage with other seniors and discuss matters that concern you.
By talking to people who relate to your issues, you get relief from the burdens and challenges that come with aging.
One way you can take care of yourself during National Wellness Month is by scheduling a regular check-up with your healthcare provider.
Check in with your doctor every year or more often if you have any underlying health conditions. This reduces your risk of getting illnesses related to high cholesterol levels or high blood pressure.
Furthermore, frequent check-ups can help identify issues early before they escalate. This improves your chances of getting effective treatment and recovering fully.
You can keep a calendar of the number of times you've visited your doctor. This measure helps you schedule your next appointment on time.
Additionally, you can have a close family member handle your medical records in case you're fond of forgetting. This way, you can always stay on top of medications and doctor's appointments.
As an older individual living in Newton, NC, you're most likely retired and are wondering what's next for your life. According to an article in the Archives of General Psychiatry, the seniors with the most sense of purpose were less likely to get Alzheimer's disease.
Finding this purpose requires some time and effort. Try to get out of your comfort zone and come up with a clear-cut, realistic plan. You can start by discovering what motivates you to wake up every morning.
This may be taking care of your plants, sewing blankets or sweaters, or working on an old car in your garage. Whatever it is that you anticipate doing every day can help improve your wellbeing.
In addition, you can join an art class to rediscover your passion for painting. By finding a new purpose in life, your golden years stop being dull and you feel excited and motivated every day.
Among the most vital health habits for older adults is putting your finances in check. Trim any unnecessary costs and make a budget to avoid overspending. It helps you afford basic needs and reduce the stress that comes with being broke.
With proper budgeting, you can easily save for hobbies such as leisure and sports.
Aging comes with a lot of changes, including health concerns and loss of income. As a senior living in Newton, NC, it's important to adopt and maintain healthy habits to improve your well-being. National Wellness Month encourages older individuals to find a sense of purpose and enhance their physical and mental well-being.
At TerraBella Newton, we offer residents full access to a variety of amenities, including an arts and crafts studio and senior-specific wellness classes to encourage healthy living. We have scenic walking paths which make it easy for you to keep moving and maintain good health.
Contact us for high-quality senior living and memory care wellness support.