14 Lifestyle changes seniors can make to lead a healthy life as they age

A balanced diet and participation in regular exercise are paramount in maintaining a healthy life for people of all ages. Routine exercise and a healthy diet in seniors can have an even more noticeable impact on their general well-being.

Many diseases in seniors may be prevented or at least slowed down as a result of a healthy lifestyle. Osteoporosis, arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, dementia, depression, and certain cancers are some of the common conditions that can be positively modified in seniors through diet, exercise, and other simple lifestyle changes.

In addition to diet and exercise, other important lifestyle modifications to lead a healthier life in seniors include:

Limiting alcohol intake to one drink daily
Smoking cessation
Using skin moisturizers and sun protection
Brushing and flossing teeth once or twice a day
Staying proactive in own healthcare and participating in decision making
Going to the primary care doctor routinely
Reviewing the list of medications with their doctor(s) often
Following recommended instructions for health screening, preventive tests, and vaccinations
Visiting a dentist annually or biannually
Following up with eye doctor and foot doctor, especially for people with diabetes
Being aware of potential medication side effects and drug interactions including over-the-counter drugs, herbals, and alternative medicine
Adhering to a routine sleep schedule and using good sleep hygiene
Engaging in routine and scheduled social activities
Taking vacations

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What role does diet play in senior health?

A good and healthy diet has numerous potential benefits for the health of seniors.

Heart disease, vascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, strokes, memory problems, osteoporosis, certain cancers, skin, hair, and nail diseases, and visual problems are examples of conditions that can be impacted by diet.
Proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water are all essential nutrients that make up most cells and tissues in the human body. Thus, these essential components need to be provided in moderation through the diet for the maintenance of good health.
A balanced diet consisting of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fiber is generally recommended to provide these necessary nutrients. Avoidance of saturated fats (animal fat), supplementation with minerals and vitamins, and consumption of plenty of fluids are considered important components of a healthy diet.
Although the quality of food is important, its quantity should not be overlooked. A large portion of a very healthy diet can still lead to a high caloric intake. Moderate portion sizes to achieve daily caloric goals of 1500 to 2000 are generally advised. Avoiding empty calories is also important. These are foods that lack good nutritional value but are high in calories. Examples include sodas, chips, cookies, donuts, and alcohol.
Special dietary restrictions for certain conditions are also important to follow. Restricted salt and fluid intake for people with heart failure or kidney disease, or a carbohydrate-controlled diet for people with diabetes are general examples of such guidelines.