In October 2022, the WHO released eye-opening statistics, according to which every 6th human being on the planet will be over 60 years by 2030. As the media debates whether 60 is the new 50, many people argue that sexagenarians are modern-day middle-aged people.
So, how does your body react to you turning 60? Your skin gets bruised, blemished, and wrinkled, your sweat glands become less active, stress levels are higher, and insomnia becomes bothersome. More importantly, the risk of chronic illness increases how do you stay healthy, then? This article explains some simple tips for staying healthy after 60. You can ensure your well-being by doing the following:
Become health literate
Turning 60 seems like an excellent opportunity to enhance your health literacy. How much do you know about your well-being? Research suggests that health literacy is directly related to a person’s well-being. Health-literate people focus more on self-care and are more cautious about preventable diseases. A 60-year-old, therefore, should become more health-literate and make better health decisions.
Schedule medical checkups
Don’t skip your doctor’s appointments for preventive screenings. These screenings may help healthcare practitioners diagnose diseases early and prolong your lifespan by treating them properly. For instance, mesothelioma is a rare disease that develops years after prolonged asbestos exposure. Diagnosing this condition on time can lead to prompt treatment, and you may even access the resources to get some compensation for your condition. So, don’t miss a doctor’s visit after 60.
Don’t skip breakfast
It’s said that breakfast is the most important of the day. Even if you don’t agree with this statement, there’s no denying that starting every morning with the right combination of nutrients can help you stay energized for the rest of the day. So, instead of starting your morning with a few sips of black coffee while munching on a day-old muffin, consider sitting down comfortably at the breakfast table and paying attention to what you’re eating. For a hearty breakfast, drink OJ, smoothies, or milkshakes, along with some fruits, eggs, and whole grains.
Become active
Turning 60 isn’t a valid excuse to give up on exercising. You should engage in moderate exercise for half an hour every day to maintain your well-being. The more you move, the healthier your bones and muscles remain. Work out more often by walking, jogging, or cycling. Don’t adopt a sedentary lifestyle where you keep sitting in one position for a long time. It’s crucial to find the best exercise for your body, so try different workout routines and experiment with what your body can comfortably withstand after 60.
Get enough sleep
Studies suggest that almost 18% of older adults have insomnia at some point in their lives. Don’t let insomnia harm your well-being and address the underlying issues behind it. Talk to your doctor; make sure nothing comes in the way of you and a good night’s rest. Your body must rest at night to refresh itself for a busy day ahead. So, you need to sleep 7 to 8 hours every night.
Buy new sneakers
Wearing the wrong shoes can hamper your exercise routine, so choosing quality sneakers is better. Be more age-positive and invest in sexagenarian-friendly footwear for your morning walk or run. Wearing comfortable sneakers will help you catch up on your goals so you can gradually improve your pace.
Never be unproductive
Just because you’re retired (or about to) doesn’t mean you have to sit idle at home. You should keep yourself occupied with something; responsibilities, no matter how trivial, prevent older adults from succumbing to boredom and a sedentary lifestyle. Instead of sitting around doing nothing, try to cook something, write an autobiography, or volunteer in a soup kitchen to keep yourself busy today.
Improve your mental health
Studies show that every 5th 60-year-old person suffers from mental health issues. While researchers believed that the brain stops making new cells among older adults, this view has been rejected. Research shows that brains are capable of creating new neural connections, even among 90-year-old people as well. All you have to do is keep yourself occupied with healthy pastimes to keep your mind productive and positive. So, engage in a healthy hobby, learn another language, teach yourself a new craft, and remain mentally healthy.
Manage your stress
Older adults are more vulnerable to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. For this reason, they must focus intently on managing their stress by engaging in stress-reducing exercises, e.g., keeping a journal, doing some yoga, or performing deep-breathing exercises. Try meditation techniques and give up on smoking/drinking. That’s why you live a stress-free life as a 60-year-old person.
Socialize with people
One of the fastest methods to recover your mental dexterity involves socializing. Connect with your pals from school and college, rekindle a long-lost camaraderie, and hang out with your loved ones more often. You need these connections to make your life eventful and maintain your mental well-being. Make friends on the internet if you’re into social media; it’s an amazing way to meet people from all over the world. Remember that self-imposed isolation is harmful to your overall well-being at a later age.
Conclusion
Crossing 60 doesn’t mean you should give up on yourself. After all, age is just a number. Your sixtieth birthday indicates you should focus more intently on regaining your health. Take your well-being in your hands and recoup your youth. Stay active, eat healthy food, engage in stress-reducing exercises, socialize with your buddies, and increase your health-related knowledge. Regular medical screenings can help diagnose chronic conditions before they become a menace to your longevity.