By Marisa Hochberg : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1OgSJybo0Q
It’s no secret that as we get older, our lives change. But the changes don’t have to be negative. Research shows that as we age, having a higher sense of well-being can help us live longer and happier lives. That being said, living an older life does present its own set of challenges. Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do to help make your later years more enjoyable and productive. Read on to learn some key ways you can improve your well-being at any age.
Eat Healthy, Stay Active
Healthy eating is incredibly important as you age, not just for your physical health, but for the well-being of the people in your life as well. If you’re living alone, having a steady supply of healthy food in your home significantly lowers your risk of becoming a social isolation case. And it’s also key for maintaining your physical and cognitive function as you age. Start by making sure to add more veggies and fruits to your meals. Choose veggies that are low in starch, like carrots, peas, and broccoli, as well as low-calorie fruits, like low-fat apples and oranges. For your protein, try to stick with lean proteins, like boiled chicken breast, turkey, or extra-lean beef, and limit your red meat intake.
Get A Good Night’s Sleep
While it might sound counterintuitive, getting a good night’s sleep can actually improve your sense of well-being. A recent study found that sleep is more important than previously thought. Not only does it support cognitive function, but it also improves your mood. This isn’t something you can rush. The best you can do is get into a regular sleep routine. Try to wind down for a few hours before bedtime by eating something, cracking open a book, or watching some relaxing TV. You might also find it helpful to have a sleep partner, who can help keep you on track.
Find Time For Yourself
Although it might feel like you have a million things you need to do, making time for yourself can boost your overall sense of well-being. Even if you feel like you have a million things you need to get done, taking a few moments to spend time with yourself can make all the difference. Start small by taking a walk, journaling, or reading a book. Whatever it is you like to do for self-soothing, try to find ways to incorporate it into your daily schedule.
Cultivate Relationships With Others
Keeping your relationships strong as you age can be incredibly beneficial. It can help you feel less isolated and more connected to the people around you. Try to make friends with those who are a little older than you, as they’re more likely to have lived through similar experiences and be willing to give guidance. If you have children, try to keep the lines of communication open between you and your kids. Not only will it make you feel less isolated, but it will also make it easier for you to encourage your children’s emotional, social, and academic development.
Take Care Of The Basics – Shower, Brush Teeth, And Makeup, Etc.
While you might feel like you don’t have the time, there are a few things you should never wait to do. One of these things is taking care of your teeth and oral hygiene. Regularly flossing your teeth, brushing your tongue with a tongue scraper, and having your teeth cleaned can significantly improve your mental health. It can also help you live a longer, healthier life. A diet high in sugar, refined foods, and trans fat is associated with an increased risk of age-related cognitive decline. Try to eat a diet low in these foods, which will help you keep your cognitive function at an optimal level for longer.
Do Something You Love Every Day
While it might be tempting to retire at a young age and settle into a long retirement, the later you wait, the harder it will be to retire. And if you do decide to retire too early, you’ll end up resenting it and wish you could go back to work. Find something you love, even if it is only once a week. There are many things you can do to fill your day with purpose. One of them could be volunteering at a local organization.
Conclusion
Living a healthy and productive life as you age can boost your overall sense of well-being. Make sure to eat healthy, get enough sleep, find time for yourself, maintain strong relationships, and do something you love every day. These healthy habits can help you feel happier, healthier, and more fulfilled as you get older.
