There are many factors that influence the aging process. Some things can’t be controlled, like genetics. But there are many healthy habits that can help prevent disease and help us age gracefully. I have witnessed firsthand how you can make simple and important changes that can help you live a healthy and fulfilling life.Laura Sander, MD, MPH is the Medical Director for the Northeast Region Healing.
Simply put, you need human connections to survive. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted this need.according to CDC“Social isolation significantly increases the risk of premature death from all causes, and poor social relationships are associated with an approximately 30% increase in heart disease and stroke.” Staying connected with friends, family and community is essential to maintaining physical and mental health.
If you feel isolated or lonely, get out of the house and volunteer by joining a local community center, club, or place of worship, answering calls regularly, or scheduling Zoom calls. Make it a habit with your family and friends. It’s also important to have a health care professional you trust and be able to talk openly about your health concerns and issues that affect your health.
Prevention is the best medicine. Staying up to date with annual exams, required vaccinations, blood tests and screenings will keep you in control of your health. Proving your home safe is another good way to prevent health risks. As a doctor, I work with my patients to eliminate safety hazards that tend to cause falls. These include removing furniture, clutter, and slippery rugs that can be tripped over, making sure the home is well lit, and installing stability bars near showers and toilets.
As you get older, you need fewer calories, but you burn more. Make sure your diet includes fresh vegetables, fruits and nuts. If you have trouble getting to the supermarket, look into delivery services or ask your neighbors or family to hail a ride for you. You can also connect to local community resources such as Meals on Wheels. In addition to eating well, being physically active every day without overdoing it is good for your mood and health. Even a short walk in the day It helps you stay healthy, strengthen your bones, and lift your mood. It’s also important to keep your mind active. Word games, puzzles, reading and listening to books, participating in discussion groups, and socializing are good ways to help keep your mind sharp.
Almost all elderly people take at least one prescription drug daily More than one-third took 5 or more doses, 50% of patients Do not take prescribed medicines. Many people do not receive clear instructions for use, cannot read small print on medicine labels, cannot distinguish between different medicines due to visual impairment, forget to take them regularly, or do not like the side effects. There is a reason. caused by drugs. Get all the information you need from your doctor or pharmacist when prescribing medicines, because not taking them or not taking them properly can lead to serious health problems. is important.
As a doctor providing home health care, one of the benefits for my patients is being able to help them manage their medications. Inform patients that bottles can also have large, easy-to-read printed labels. Pill boxes can keep their medications organized, and written reminders or alarms can help them remember when to take them. If you experience any adverse side effects, consult your doctor. There may be alternative medicines they can prescribe. The advantage for both me and my patients is that I visit their homes so I can go through all their medications to see where they are stored and how and when they are taken. It is possible to observe
Asking for help can be difficult, but it is essential to ask for and accept help when you need it. Failure to communicate your needs and challenges can negatively impact your physical and mental health. I encourage my patients to seek help from family and friends, and to use personal care services that can help with cooking, cleaning, and other needs.
