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Your 50+ years can be your magical years of self-rediscovery and freedom. Sounds more like your twenties, doesn't it? Most of you in your 50s and above are now relatively free of financial responsibilities and taking care of children. As compared to your 30s and 40s now you have more time, resources and most importantly the freedom to pursue your hobbies, your inner calling and catch up on things left behind. It is no wonder therefore, that many 50+ people embark on new ventures, whether in business, social or personal life. Some good lifestyle habits will allow you to make the most of these wonderful years.
Eat Right
With age, your metabolic rate i.e. the rate at which your body burns calories slows down. If you don't suitably adjust your diet and exercise, all the extra calories turn into fat. Hence age-related weight gain is very common and is a major health concern as it increases the risk of heart diseases and blood pressure. To manage your weight and health, follow some simple guidelines.
- Though your body needs fewer calories now, it still needs good nutrition. So don't go on fad diets or fasts without consulting your doctor.
- Consult your doctor on your nutritional needs, medical condition and create your food plan accordingly.
- Eat at least three portions of fruits and vegetables a day.
- Avoid intake of excessive salt, sugar, processed food and unhealthy fats.
- Drink plenty of water and natural drinks such as buttermilk, fruit juices etc.
Physical Activity
Being over 50s doesn't mean slowing down exercise or physical activity. In fact, an active lifestyle is a must for you to retain mobility, flexibility and strength. Physical activity can range from everyday household tasks, daily walking to active sports and exercises such as swimming, jogging, tennis etc. Experts recommend 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day, at least five times a week.
If you have always been exercising or doing a good amount of physical activity you should continue with the same. For those who are not really the active type, it's better late than never. The best way of exercising is doing workouts / activities/ sports that you enjoy so that you won't avoid them. However, before beginning any exercise plan, be sure to consult your doctor.
Benefits
- Helps you maintain weight.
- Keeps your muscles and bones strong. This increases your strength and reduces the risk of fractures.
- Cuts down the risk of diabetes, heart diseases, and certain cancers.
- Gives you a good night's sleep.
- Helps you increase your vitality and zest for life.
Mental Activity
Your muscles and brain work on the "use it or lose it' principle. Mental activity is essential to keep your brain active. Research has proven that doing mentally challenging activities such as, crosswords, puzzles, reading, learning new skills provides mental stimulation, which reduces the risk of cognitive diseases and Alzheimer's.
As you age, change in your body is inevitable, but this does not mean your body has to deteriorate rapidly. Many diseases such as Alzheimer's, weight gain, heart problems etc. are more a function of your lifestyle than your age. A combination of right diet, exercise and mental activity will improve the quality of your physical, emotional and mental functioning. Apart from this trio some other simple steps and precautions can significantly improve your well-being.
- Make your home / office accident proof. Make sure floors are not wet, especially bathroom / toilet floors wet. Store things at a level within your rich. Fix hand rails in your bathroom / toilet and staircase.
- Get your eyesight checked once in 3-6 months. Similarly, perform all routine checks as recommended by the doctor.
- If you suffer from a particular medical condition, always carry a card detailing the condition, emergency first aid, emergency contact number and family doctor's number.
- Practice meditation / relaxation techniques.
- Women, remember that menopause need not be an emotionally and physically draining experience. With clinical help, counselling, diet and exercise, this phase can be made smoother.
- Retired people often feel useless and develop low-self esteem and low confidence. Hence, keep working. You may retire from your job at a certain age, but you can still continue working by setting up your own venture, by providing your services to the community or in any other way that is suitable.
- Socialize. Join a club / social / community organisation of your interest. So, whether you are staying with your family or not, you will always get a chance to interact with like-minded people.
- Stay away from people who think ageing means inactivity and deterioration.
- Think young but also recognise and be proud of your maturity. Don't whine about your age and the charm of youth. Every phase has its own significance, so be comfortable in your skin.
- Be happy, positive and optimistic.
Each day till the last is worth living, hence, put positive thoughts and actions into each day that comes. By ageing gracefully, you are truly enjoying the gift of life to the hilt and are showing the right way to your children and grand children.
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