Tips for Aging Healthfully in Honor of Healthy Aging Month

September is Healthy Aging Month! In recognition of that designation, Fellowship Square offers seniors the following tips to help them stay healthy and happy as they enjoy their golden years.

Nutrition is really at the root of prolonging one’s life and aging healthfully. What people put into their bodies throughout their lifetime can greatly impact their health — in good and not-so-good ways. So nutrition is important to consider! Food is the best medicine and as such, there are certain “prescriptions” that are most effective for certain things. 

Produce —

Most everyone has heard it all their lives “eat those fruits and veggies!” Eating a rainbow of produce is great for the entire body, but it’s also a secret to youthful glowing skin! So before reaching for that wrinkle cream, reach for an orange! Vitamin C, found in foods like oranges and other citrus, strawberries and blueberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and broccoli, is an amazing nutrient for skin repair. It actually can help the body produce collagen, regenerate skin cells, reduce wrinkles, and combat skin damage from too much time spent in the sun. 

Nuts —

A handful of nuts can be an easy and delicious way to maintain heart health. Studies have shown that specific nuts, such as walnuts, are key to helping to lower total cholesterol (particularly the “bad cholesterol” LDL). They are also credited for helping to maintain healthy blood pressure and prolong cognitive health, both vital as people age.

Vitamin D —

Vitamin D is another super nutrient that can help boost moods as well as keep bones and teeth strong as healthy as people age. Vitamin D can also support immune, brain, and nervous system health, lung function, and cardiovascular health too! Vitamin D can be obtained through oily fish such as salmon or mackerel, egg yolks, and fortified foods or dairy.

Fish and Seafood —

Specific types of wild fish and seafood are credited for helping brain development and mental health, immunity, and reducing the risk of heart disease, depression, and dementia. Seafood also contains anti-inflammatory properties and is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help prevent heart disease and stroke, rheumatoid arthritis and may even help protect against cancer and other diseases.

In addition to enjoying a healthy diet rich in delicious whole foods, staying active is another secret key to healthy aging. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, “Balancing physical activity and a healthful diet is the best recipe for health and fitness.” The organization recommends physical activity for at least 30 minutes every day. Brisk walking is a great way to get started and enjoy some time outdoors too. Seniors should always speak with their healthcare provider before starting a new fitness routine. 

Fellowship Square wants its residents and all seniors to enjoy a happy healthy life long into their golden years. In order to do so, it’s all about eating right and moving the body. These two simple keys can be fun and delicious ways to age healthfully well into the future.