Daily Habits for Overall Senior Health

Habits become so familiar that they become effortless. Human beings are creatures of habit and we are wired to want security. It is said that it takes 21 days to form a habit, but the amount of time that it takes will depend on the person’s circumstances and personality. When it comes to setting healthy daily habits, it is important to have support, guidance and encouragement from family and caregivers. Below the worst and best daily habits for seniors will be discussed.

Bad Habits

  • Spending too much time in front of the television. Although this a a good way for them to pass time and be a filler for companionship, there are other ways that are more rewarding for them.
  • Sitting too long. Sitting for more than 6 hours a day can lead to serious ailments such as diabetes and cardiac disease. People who sit for long periods of time often have a shorter lifespan than those that sit for 3 hours or less.
  • Holding on to grudges. Holding on to grudges can increase the risk of heart disease, impair the immune system, cause hair loss, pain disorders, wrinkles, elevated heart rate, high blood pressure and stomach ulcers. Those who hold on to grudges tend to be sicker than those who keep the peace.
  • Unhealthy eating. Eating an unhealthy diet can increase cholesterol. High cholesterol is a silent disease and there is no way of knowing if it is a problem without a blood test. Those with high cholesterol are at higher risk for stroke, angina, heart attack and peripheral vascular disease. Seniors should avoid food with unhealthy fats to aid in reducing their bad cholesterol.
  • Chronic complaining. When a person is a chronic complainer, it not only drains them, but it also drains the people that are caring for them. This can lead to anxiety and depression and can make the situation worse than what it is.

Good Habits

  • Having a fun hobby can be a great outlet for creativity and exercise. Brain games and puzzles can help ward off Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Crocheting, knitting or tatting can keep the senior’s creativity alive.
  • Regular exercise. Chair exercises are great for seniors and can be done with the aid of videos. The exercises are designed for those who have limited mobility.
  • Forgive and forget. Senior’s who are able to forgive those that are close to them have decreased frustration, depression and stress.
  • Healthy eating. Senior’s should have a healthy amount of fiber, mono- and polyunsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, black and green tea and tomatoes in their diets.
  • Be grateful. Being grateful can help seniors feel more energetic, productive and motivated. Everyone should try to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.

The staff at The Nurses Guild Home Health Agency genuinely care about every senior’s well-being and quality of life. They are there to assist both the senior and their families.