staying well at home
Nutrition and hydration
Maintain good Oral hygiene
Maintain good Oral hygiene
It may seem obvious, but maintaining a balanced diet is essential for good health, energy, and preventing illness. A healthy diet should be low in saturated fat and rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, oily fish, and small amounts of low-fat dairy and lean meats. Be sure to stay hydrated with plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which can lead to fatigue and confusion. While tea, coffee, and fruit juice can also help with hydration, it’s best to avoid sugary soft drinks. If you consume alcohol, make sure to have at least two alcohol-free days each week to allow your liver to recover, and always stick to the recommended daily limits for alcohol intake.
Maintain good Oral hygiene
Maintain good Oral hygiene
Maintain good Oral hygiene
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day. Flossing helps prevent gum disease by removing food particles and plaque from between your teeth. If plaque builds up, you may experience sore or bleeding gums, and gum disease has been linked to conditions like diabetes, strokes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. Make sure to schedule regular check-ups, and if you wear dentures or have a bridge, ask your dentist to ensure they fit properly.
Stay active
Make the most of your doctor
Make the most of your doctor
Regular exercise is key to staying strong and healthy. It reduces the risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even cancer. On top of that, staying active can boost your self-esteem, improve sleep, and increase your energy levels. Government recommendations suggest that older adults aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, along with strengthening exercises twice a week. If that seems like a lot, start with small steps and gradually increase your activity as your strength improves.
Make the most of your doctor
Make the most of your doctor
Make the most of your doctor
It's a good idea to have regular tests with your doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. High readings can increase your risk of stroke and heart disease, but any issues can often be managed or reversed with medication.
While you're at the doctor's, consider asking about the seasonal flu vaccine. It's free once you turn 65 or if you have a health condition that makes you more vulnerable to complications from the flu. It’s all about staying healthy at home
Get a vitamin boost
Take care of your feet
Take care of your feet
Many people are unaware that they have a vitamin D deficiency, with estimates suggesting that half of adults are affected. A lack of vitamin D has been linked to cognitive issues, bone problems, and cardiovascular disease. Try to spend at least 15-20 minutes outside in the sunlight each day to boost your vitamin D levels. It’s also found in foods like eggs and oily fish. Alternatively, consult your doctor about taking a vitamin D supplement.
Take care of your feet
Take care of your feet
Take care of your feet
Take care of your feet by moisturizing regularly to prevent dry skin and trimming your toenails straight across. Ensure your shoes fit properly and provide good support for your feet.
If your feet are sore, you might be tempted to wear slippers, but a pair of supportive trainers could be a better option.
Reach out to your doctor if your feet become painful, excessively hot or cold, or if you have common issues like corns, bunions, or ingrown toenails.
Stay in touch
Improve your sleep
Improve your sleep
Spending time with others can help reduce feelings of loneliness or anxiety. If you're unable to do the activities you once enjoyed, consider exploring new hobbies or volunteering. Use Skype or other video calling apps to stay in touch with friends and family who live far away. If you're single, divorced, or grieving and wish to meet new people, consider exploring options to connecting to others.
Improve your sleep
Improve your sleep
Improve your sleep
As we age, many of us struggle with falling or staying asleep, which can lead to feelings of tiredness and irritability.
To prevent insomnia, try reducing daytime naps, creating a bedtime routine, and going to bed at the same time each night.
A warm drink like chamomile tea or hot milk before bed can also help promote better sleep.