Now that winter is over, it’s time to shake off your cabin fever and bask in the sunshine. What kinds of things should a senior focus on if they want to get outside and enjoy themselves this summer? Follow these tips to stay healthy and active, and you’ll be ready before you know it!
Tips to Stay Healthy and Active
Are you happy that winter is over? For many seniors, spring marks a welcome return to outdoor activities and fun. However, if you aren’t feeling as healthy as you could be, it can be challenging to make the most of the warm weather. Try these tips to stay healthy and active and get your body ready for some summer fun.
Make Exercise Fun
Did you know that seniors are supposed to get 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise? Don’t worry, you don’t have to become a serious gym devotee to cultivate your physical fitness. There are plenty of creative options that will let you get the workout you need and also have fun along the way:
- One of the best ways to stay motivated is to make your exercise enjoyable in some way. Look for activities that feel like fun to you, and be ready to try new things that spark your curiosity. Yoga in the park, anybody?
- If it’s hard to keep yourself consistent, nothing helps accountability like an exercise buddy. Ask a friend with similar fitness goals to join you, and you can cheer each other on.
- Look for simple ways you can add physical activity to your day. Can you walk somewhere instead of driving or do some stretches while watching TV? A few minutes here and there will add up!
- Keeping track of your physical activity can help you stay motivated and show you how much progress you’ve made. Print out an exercise tracker, put it somewhere you’ll see it every day, and be sure to keep it updated.
Eat for Your Health
Physical activity is a smart way to stay healthy, but your diet is equally important. Seniors have unique food needs, and it’s a good idea to ensure your diet accommodates them. With some minor lifestyle tweaks, you can get all the nutrition you need:
- Seniors often need additional protein, so prioritize protein sources in your diet. You can add lean proteins to any meal with nuts, fish, or beans.
- Do you need to cut the salt out of your diet? Take a look at the rest of your spice rack and get creative. Herbs and fresh citrus juices like lemon can add a punch of flavor to any meal, and they’re naturally low in sodium.
- Sometimes senior diets are deficient in necessary nutrients, like vitamin B12. Talk to your doctor about how you can improve your nutrient intake. They may recommend supplements or foods you can try, and they can help you create a diet plan that works for your lifestyle.
- Staying hydrated is also essential to a senior diet. Proper hydration will help you digest food and absorb nutrients more efficiently. Carry a water bottle and look for foods that provide hydration too, like fresh fruit and vegetables.
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We hope these tips to stay healthy and active will help you have the summer you’ve been looking forward to. How can you prioritize your health today?
Are you interested in retiring in Springfield, Missouri? At Springhouse Village, we know how important it is to enjoy your retirement in a lively and welcoming environment. We make it easy for our residents to be active participants in our community. Whether that means encouraging residents to join an exercise class or assisting them in starting a garden club, we strive to help our residents thrive. To learn more about the amenities and services we offer, contact Springhouse Village today by sending us a message online or calling 417-708-3403.