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Log in to My Covenant HealthHealthy Aging in Adults
Aging is inevitable, but there are ways to help ensure that you or your loved one live a longer, healthier life.
Three Tips for Healthy Aging
Get moving!
Regular exercise, especially in older adults, can help boost heart health, maintain a healthy body weight, keep joints flexible and healthy, and improve balance. Older adults should aim to get at least two and a half hours of aerobic exercise per week and do muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week. Try dancing, aquatics, gardening, tennis, golf or yoga for fun ways to exercise and support healthy aging.
Develop healthy food habits.
Vitamins and nutrients are important for healthy aging. Certain dietary habits may help slow cognitive decline and prevent heart disease. The Mediterranean diet focuses on fish, olive oil, beans, nuts, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It can help both brain and heart health. Leafy greens like spinach and kale have also been linked to a slower mental decline. Hydration is important too — properly hydrated adults have been shown to have fewer incidents of heart and lung disease. Typically, women should aim to drink six to nine cups of water each day, and men eight to 12.
Stay social; stay positive.
Maintaining a busy social life as you age can help you feel connected and engaged. Social connections boost your mood, reduce your sense of loneliness and isolation, and improve your mental and overall health. Older adults who volunteer or participate in social activities are also less likely to develop physical, cognitive or emotional problems. Viewing aging in a positive light also has a positive effect on mental and physical health.
Keeping up to date with screenings and doctor’s appointments is also an important part of healthy aging. Visiting your primary care physician annually is a great way to make sure that you’re keeping your health in check.
Covenant Health has primary care providers throughout East Tennessee ready to provide health expertise, support and care for you or your loved one. Visit CovenantHealth.com/Our-Services/Primary-Care to find a doctor or call 865-374-0411.