Top 10 health worries when you’re 60-plus (and how to beat them)
As we get older it’s natural to begin noticing the parts of your body that may not be working quite as well as before. While certain things are part of your bodies ageing process, there are plenty of easy ways to keep the most pressing health concerns at bay. We’ve taken a look at the 10 most pressing health worries shared by over-60s and the everyday solutions that work most effectively.
1. Aching joints
Whether it’s weather induced or something that’s occurred as you’ve gotten older, aching joints aren’t much fun. The best way to keep things supple and pain free is by including gentle exercise in your day. Walking, yoga, swimming and stretches are all fantastic for keeping your muscles active and joints happy.
2. Declining eyesight
While a decline in your eyesight is a natural part of getting older, changes to your diet can help halt the decline and improve your current vision. Adding beta-carotene rich carrots and antioxidant packed leafy greens lowers your risk of developing conditions like cataracts and helps maintain eye health.
3. Forgetting things
If you’ve started to notice that it’s harder to remember certain things, it may be time to include some brain training in your day. Crosswords, maths puzzles or activities like knitting or quilting are all great ways to keep your brain ticking over.
4. Heart health
With heart disease prevention being at the forefront of many people’s minds, knowing how to keep your heart happy and healthy is important. Taking the stairs when you can and including some aerobic exercise into your day is the best way to keep your ticker ticking.
5. Decreased energy levels
If you’re finding that you’re lethargic by the afternoon and struggle to move off the couch you may not be getting enough sleep at night. Aim for eight solid hours with the same bed and wake up time each day. If your night sleep isn’t enough, adding a short afternoon nap can also put the pep back in your step.
6. Weakening bones
If brittle bones are an issue, make sure you’re getting out in the sun. Vitamin D levels start to decline rapidly after menopause leading to conditions like osteoporosis. Getting a daily dose of sun is an easy way to ensure your levels stay boosted.
7. Losing strength
If you find that your muscles are becoming weaker, up the protein and resistance training! A light weights workout or exercise program that uses your body weight is the best way to maintain and build muscle while protein rich foods like eggs and cheese are a great snack to add to your daily food intake.
8. Rising cholesterol
Keeping an eye on your cholesterol is essential as you get older. If you find it increasing, try adding an extra serve or two of oily fish to your diet. Packed with Omega-3s it’ll do your brain and heart health no end of good.
9. Higher blood pressure
Worried about your blood pressure? Ease up on the salt. A diet too high in sodium puts you at higher risk of heart attack and stroke. Try and minimise the amount you add to food and steer clear of packaged items which tend to be very high in added salt.
10. Failing immune system
If your immune system seems constantly under attack take note and give it a helping hand. Ensuring that you get enough rest, eat well and include exercise in your daily routine all helps build immunity.