Our bodies naturally age, but engaged seniors who are proactive about their health can slow the process. Proper exercise (at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week), socializing, and incorporating healthy eating habits into your lifestyle can delay many diseases and, in some cases, entirely avoid them. Staying as fit as possible helps the body and mind, and socializing helps prevent cognitive decline. Eating a healthy diet with vegetables and fruits is important, and the Mediterranean diet is highly recommended. It’s not “one size fits all” regarding eating habits, though—some seniors may need to fine-tune their diet, while others may need major changes.
Slowing cognitive decline is the most important factor in retaining memory. Be sure to check blood pressure regularly and identify outliers such as possible diabetes or high cholesterol levels. Puzzles or word games are good tools for preventing cognitive decline because they work with various parts of the brain, but the foremost is staying physically active.
Another important pillar in the cycle of life is proper sleep. Try to get six to eight hours of rest, as a good night’s sleep refreshes the body and mind. Social interaction is important, as being isolated and sedentary can shorten one’s lifespan. Try to stay in touch with friends and family as much as possible, but if you can’t get out of the house, social media apps can help you stay in touch. Conviva Care Centers offer various classes and activities to help seniors live their healthiest possible lives.
Healthy Aging
When it comes to aging well, almost everything Conviva’s care team does for seniors falls into the category of what I call the “5 Ms.” This is memory, mobility, medications, medical conditions, and what’s most important for the patient. We develop close relationships with patients because it’s important to understand their healthcare goals. The answers vary, as every patient has their interpretation of “healthy.”
When it comes to healthy aging, I recommend five points that seniors can do to maintain health:
- Avoid toxins like alcohol and tobacco.
- Learn stress coping techniques.
- Optimize cognitive health: learn a new language, play a musical instrument, or how cook.
- Optimize physical health: remain active and learn fall prevention techniques. (Tai Chi is highly recommended because it helps with balance.)
- Optimize mental health: Remain socially active and determine what’s meaningful to lead a fulfilling life.
Family/Physician Support
Family support is vital, especially for a loved one experiencing cognitive decline. Caregivers are vital members of the care team, and if a family decides to employ a caregiver, it’s important to ensure they fully understand the patient’s mental and physical capabilities. Whether a family member or employed caregiver, keep the lines of communication open and make sure they are not overwhelmed. The patient’s physician will monitor health and cognitive conditions and recommend that seniors remain healthy.
Consult your doctor with specific questions about your health and how to remain as active and healthy as possible.
ABOUT CONVIVA
Conviva is part of CenterWell, a leading healthcare services business focused on creating integrated and differentiated experiences that put our patients at the center of everything we do. The result is high-quality health care that is accessible, comprehensive, and, most of all, personalized. As the largest provider of senior-focused primary care, one of the leading providers of home health care, and a leading integrated home delivery, specialty, hospice, and retail pharmacy, CenterWell is focused on whole health and addressing our patients’ physical, emotional, and social wellness. CenterWell and Conviva are part of Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM). Learn more about what we offer at CenterWell.com and ConvivaCareCenters.com.
