Essential Wellness Tips for Senior Women
According to a US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report, senior women are more likely than men to develop chronic conditions such as arthritis, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and diabetes (Centers for Disease Control, 2015). Chronic health problems can make it challenging to carry out daily activities such as dressing, cooking, walking, or bathing. It is essential for seniors to talk to their doctors about how to stay healthy at every age.
The following are some tips on healthy habits for senior women from the U.S. Office of Women’s Health.
Talking to your doctor at least once a year is a good foundation for healthy living at every age. Additionally schedule regular screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, and vision throughout the year to ensure you are maintaining good health.
As we age, we need good nutrition to maintain our health. Seniors require fewer calories daily compared to their younger years, so eating mindfully is vital to maintaining a healthy weight. Seniors should eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Choose lean meats such as fish or poultry. Eat two servings of dairy daily such as low-fat milk, low-fat cheese, or yogurt. Myplate.gov is a good resource for understanding good nutrition with recipes for incorporating vegetables into every meal!
Routine check-ups promote good oral health and prevent infection. Good oral health is essential to overall health.
As we age, our skin becomes more fragile and susceptible to sun damage, increasing the risk of skin cancer. Seniors should wear wide-brimmed hats and apply sunscreen whenever they are outdoors.
Taking medications as prescribed is essential to maintaining health. Create visual and audio reminders for taking your medication daily. Always bring all your medications to your doctor’s visits and check with your doctor before taking any new medicine or supplements.
Falls are the leading cause of long-term injury and disability in seniors. Strengthen your bones by engaging in exercises daily such as walking or strength training. Create a fall-safe environment by installing handlebars at the shower, toilet, and stairs. Wear non-slip footwear and remove throw-rugs and clutter from walking areas. Talk to your doctor about using a cane or walker to assist with gait and balance.
Office on Women's Health. (2020, April 30). Healthy Living by Age. womenshealth.gov. https://www.womenshealth.gov/healthy-living-age.