Staying energetic at 60 and beyond is connected to lifestyle choices. While you can't stop the progression of time, you have more control over the effects than you might realize.
A youthful outlook is often considered the key to enjoying life as you age. You can increase your odds of staying active, independent, and resilient. How? By being proactive about your lifestyle.
It may not be an external fountain, but it’s possible to enjoy the rewards of healthy choices. Use these lifestyle tips from Senior Assistance Club to increase energy after 60.
Social activity is vital to health and happiness. Time spent socializing helps keep your mind young. Talking and interacting with others enhances cognitive abilities and stimulates your brain.
Consider the following benefits of frequent social interaction:
Older adults who stay socially active and engaged, report feeling healthier and happier than those who are isolated.
Physical activity can delay or reverse the symptoms associated with aging and protect your quality of life. Without exercise, physical impairments will lead to further functional limitations and frailty. Some of the many reasons to establish a healthy exercise routine include:
Experts recommend striving for 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least several times per week. A brisk walk, swimming, and even gardening will reduce your risk of muscle deterioration as you age. Muscle-strengthening activities, even when performed in the comfort of your chair, when necessary, will improve your overall health. You can even try more gentle exercises like Tai-Chi or yoga for seniors. Anything to keep your body moving!
Even the best diet and exercise habits will not be entirely beneficial if you don’t drink enough water.
Your body requires fluids to function. Fluids keep essential nutrients flowing through your cells, help maintain healthy joints, and keep your body temperature regulated. Some of the other health benefits of maintaining adequate hydration levels include:
Keep in mind that drinking plain water may not be enough to keep your body adequately hydrated. Drinking too much plain water can deplete your electrolyte levels. Consider supplementing your intake with electrolyte solutions, especially if you live in a warm climate.
Your metabolism will continue to slow as you age, meaning you will need fewer calories to support your weight. Therefore, it's vital to get the most nutrition you can from the calories you consume. The recommendations for a healthy diet include:
Choosing fruits and vegetables is a great way to support healthy eating.
Age-related muscle loss called sarcopenia commonly begins by the age of 40 and accelerates quickly after the age of 75. The decline in muscle mass is linked to increased mortality risk and reduced quality of life. But it doesn’t have to go like that.
Supplementing your diet with high-quality whey protein helps prevent muscle loss. Whey protein powder, a milk derivative, is a natural protein supplement that helps maintain lean muscle mass. Consider the value of the following benefits:
The benefits of whey protein are verifiable. In a study of men 70 and over, those who took a whey supplement for six weeks gained more lean mass than a control group who exercised but received a placebo.
Getting enough sleep is important for your overall health and well-being. Make sure to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Some of the benefits of getting enough sleep include:
There are a few simple steps that can help you get the quality sleep your body needs. First, avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening. Second, create a relaxing bedtime routine that includes winding down for 30 minutes before sleep. And finally, limit electronics use before bed and keep devices out of the bedroom if possible.
If you're noticing a lack of energy lately, it might be due to a vitamin or mineral deficiency. Luckily, this is an easy problem to fix! Simply taking supplements to help you increase your energy levels after 60. Talk to your doctor about which supplements would be right for you, and make sure to take them regularly for maximum benefit.
Some popular supplements for seniors are:
The #1 Take Away: Your choices can help you stay active and healthy, feeling youthful.
While you can't stop the clock, the choices you make today will have a significant impact on your overall health as you age. Making a few simple adjustments to your social life, exercise, hydration, and diet could have a considerable impact on your ability to maintain an active, independent lifestyle.