Getting older is a natural part of life, and there are a number of changes that take place in the mind and body as we enter our older years. It’s normal to experience changes in your health, mood and overall energy as you get older, but that doesn’t mean you can’t influence the way you feel during the process. 

Learn more about healthy aging tips that can keep you feeling vibrant and active as you get older.

No! While aging is inevitable, there are certainly steps you can take to make the transition smoother. Start by visiting your primary care provider regularly. Your doctor and care team can help you identify any health concerns you may not notice right away in order to treat them early, manage any chronic conditions that you have in order to feel your best, and develop a health plan that can help you age gracefully and keep you active in your daily life.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all secret to aging well, there are some best practices that you can follow in order to feel your best. In general, you can promote a healthy aging process by looking out for what you eat and how you spend your time, as well as staying involved in the hobbies and activities that you enjoy. The process looks different for everyone, but by focusing on your health and wellbeing, you’ll be able to notice what’s working and what isn’t.

Aging gracefully takes planning and intentionality. If you’re looking for a place to start, consider the following ways to stay fit and minimize the effects of aging: 

Exercise — One of the keys to aging well is staying active, and walking is an effective way to stay fit. Even if the weather isn’t the greatest, try to find alternative ways to keep moving, such as walking the track at your local fitness center or joining fitness events either locally or virtually.

Reduce Stress — Chronic stress is linked to a number of negative health conditions, and is common to experience as you get older. It can lead to everything from worry lines on your face to heart disease and more serious conditions. Talk to your doctor about ways to reduce stress in your daily routine. He or she may also be able to recommend a therapist or counselor who can provide more specialized care. 

Eat Your Antioxidants — Many foods are loaded with healthful antioxidants that can slow the aging process. It’s especially important to eat foods, like grapes, apples and tomatoes, that are rich with powerful antioxidant protection. 

Drink Water — Drinking plenty of water cleanses your body and ensures that it gets the hydration it needs to promote good health. Make sure you drink 6-8 cups of water every day to reduce the signs of aging

Aging well is possible, and it might be easier than you think!

If you’d like more tips about healthy living for seniors tips and support, you can meet with a nutritionist to discuss the right eating plan for you, or visit your local community center to learn more about fitness classes or group activities that you can join. 

If you have questions or need more ideas, consider talking to your doctor or care team. If you don’t know where to turn, come see if CenterWell Senior Primary Care is right for you. 

This material is provided for informational use only and should not be construed as medical advice or used in place of consulting a licensed professional. You should consult with an applicable licensed professional to determine what is right for you.