Scot Fleshman
The Wellness Wednesday column is written by Scot Fleshman, an advanced registered nurse practitioner and board-certified family nurse practitioner. Fleshman and his wife, Jessica Hopkins, own Gig Harbor Primary Care.
Community Health & Wellness
Wellness Wednesday: Tips for healthy aging
Aging is inevitable. It may even be at the forefront of your mind, especially as your body begins to communicate it’s happening. Maybe you’re feeling pains in your knees, weakened muscles, or half the energy you’re used to.
Health & Wellness Sponsor
Health and Wellness stories are made possible in part by Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, a proud sponsor of Gig Harbor Now.
However, aging doesn’t have to be frightening. Making wise lifestyle changes today can ease your aging later in life. Think about where you want to be, and take steps now that will allow you to get there.
Healthy habits
Of course, certain genetics and health complications are unavoidable, but it does not necessarily mean you are destined to age just like your parents or grandparents. Many health complications are preventable and can be avoided by beginning healthy habits.
September is Healthy Aging Month, which began in 1992 by a group of individuals who were turning 40 and wanted to lead a better life than their ancestors. They designated September as the perfect time for adults to focus on improving their habits and adopting healthier lifestyles.
In today’s article, we will share the best ways to improve your aging and live a long and healthy life.
Prioritize nutrition
Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for your body’s physical and cognitive functions. You may only realize your poor nutrition’s effects once it’s too late. Saturated fats, high sugar content, and processed snacks overrun our modern world. Eating an abundance of unhealthy foods may cause you to feel sluggish and bloated now. However, it can also increase your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure later on — which can negatively affect your aging and longevity. When you adopt healthy nutritional habits like consuming an abundance of organic produce, water, and protein, your body will thank you by decreasing your risk of severe health complications. These small changes will positively impact your brain function, gut health, muscle density, and more.
Stay active
Physical activity is beneficial for people of any age. It makes you feel better emotionally and keeps your body in top shape for functioning to its full potential. It can help to reduce common aches and pains, mental illness, and cognitive decline. Maintaining a healthy weight will keep your health risks low and your mobility high. We recommend trying new exercises that you find enjoyable. Join a team sport, walk to the corner store, or learn how to paddleboard! Whatever it is, just make sure to get moving.
Regular checkups
Preventative care is the best way to stay at the forefront of your overall health. Maintaining a robust and transparent relationship with your PCP will benefit your healthy aging journey. They can get to know your health history and recommend the best immunizations, screenings, and lifestyle to help you age gracefully. It’s important to bring up any concerns in a timely manner to stay on top of your optimal health.
Remain social
Spending time with friends and family may not seem directly linked to healthy aging. However, engaging in conversation, cheerful environments, and enjoyable activities most certainly affects your health as you age. Socialization in any form will help to keep your brain sharp and may even reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Above all else, fostering positive relationships will benefit your overall mental health and clarity. Sharing love and joy will benefit your body as you age.
Aging is a beautiful thing that many take for granted. Remember that your wrinkles show wisdom, your smile lines signify joy, and your hand pain means you’ve worked hard. The best way to enjoy the aging process even more is to care for your body the way it’s cared for you. Consume colorful foods, spend time in nature, and hug your loved ones as hard as you can.