If you’re a baby boomer, then the chances are that you’re nearing your retirement age. The statistics show that 10,000 baby boomers are retiring on a daily basis. As you retire, it is absolutely important that you do everything to maintain your physical and mental health in order to keep the quality of your life high. Just because you’re aging, doesn’t mean you can’t do so gracefully. Here are some tips from the National Association of Nursing Home Attorneys that you can use to maintain your health in retirement.
Exercise Regularly
Physical activity is one of the most powerful ways to maintain your physical health in your retirement years. The research shows that even just 15 minutes of physical exercise a day can improve your sleep, lower your blood pressure, make you live longer and fight off depression.
Simple activities like aerobics, strength training and stretching routines will build your flexibility as well as your endurance. You should, therefore, seek out communities that allow you to do this on a regular basis.
Play Games
Games like crossword puzzles and Sudoku have a way of sharpening the brain and protecting you from the loss of your memory. The beauty of the internet is that you can find lots of these games online, using them to both pass the time and keep your brain functioning well. You can also use games to build bonds with family and friends by playing games that require multiple players, such as card games and bingo.
Keep a Pet
Frequent and loving contact with a pet can ward off feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially if you’ve recently lost a spouse or live away from your adult children. By playing with a puppy and taking regular walks with it, you can also exercise and work on relieving the pain that comes with arthritis. A dog can also be a source of protection in your home as loud barks will likely make burglars think twice and go away.
Adopt Technology
Admittedly, seniors don’t take to technology as easily as younger people. However, a lot of companies are seeking to remedy this by creating products that are not only high-tech but also easy to use for seniors. Of particular interest are fall detection gadgets that help to prevent falls and the injuries that come from them. Falls are known to be a major cause of injuries and even death among seniors.
Such gadgets, which include wearables, call for assistance when someone falls. They get even fancier, however, with some monitoring the steps taken by the senior as well as their vitals, including heart rate.
Take a Vacation
Now that you’re out of the workplace, it’s a good time to take that vacation you’ve always wanted. You will have more time on your hand, and a vacation will be an excellent opportunity for you to see the sights and hear the sounds of your favorite travel destinations. At the very least, a vacation will be good for your spirits.
