5 ways to prolong independent senior living
Independent senior living is highly valuable, and something that becomes more precious with age.
However, if we don’t actively try to live a healthy lifestyle, the length of time at which we remain independent can be cut short.
It’s important to adopt certain lifestyle choices that will enable us to live independently for longer; from staying active, to keeping your brain stimulated.
So, how can you prolong your independent lifestyle?
Stay independent by engaging in regular exercise
Staying active is one of the best ways you can maintain independent senior living. The prospect of exercising may seem a little intimidating for some, but luckily, it can be adapted to suit all abilities.
If you’re new to exercise, you may find it easier to start with low impact activities, such as walking, yoga and gentle swimming. However you choose to exercise, though, try to do a little every day – and you’ll soon notice the benefits.
Regular exercise helps to strengthen the bones and muscles, whilst reducing the risk of a range of long-term health conditions – such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Engage in mentally stimulating activities
Mental stimulation is equally as important as staying physically active. Just like exercise, cognitive stimulation can help to ward off a range of health conditions, including dementia.
One of the best ways to keep your brain healthy in the long-term is to learn something new each day. You could take up a new hobby, or try reading more books.
Challenging puzzles, such as sudoku and crosswords are also great for stimulating the mind, as well as activities that promote fine motor skills, such as knitting.
Try your hand at technology
In today’s world, technology devices are popular within many homes and businesses. For the older generations, the prospect of using a device can seem a little daunting, particularly as technology is constantly developing.
However, trying out online services and applications does have its benefits. It can help to prolong your independence in ways you might not expect; for example, you can do your food shopping from the comfort of your own chair.
Online exercise tutorials also allow you to stay active at home, and video messaging services mean that you can keep in touch with family and friends whenever you like.
Socialise with others regularly
Loneliness, surprisingly, can take its toll on our mental and physical health. When experienced over time, it can instil feelings of anxiety and depression, which in turn, can weaken the immune system.
That’s why it’s so important that we remain socially active as we age. It can be all too easy to become isolated, but this does no wonders for our health.
By either looking online or heading out into your neighbourhood, you’ll likely find community events and/or volunteering opportunities that you can join. These are great options for retired individuals, since it’s an easy way to fill your time whilst offering the ideal opportunity to make new friends.
Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet is fundamental to retaining your independence. It’s vital to all of our bodily functions, whilst reducing the risk of long-term health conditions.
It’s recommended that we eat a diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, protein and healthy fats for optimum health benefits, incorporating a variety into each meal.
For some healthy cooking inspiration, take a look at our recipe articles.