Newsroom | Community Health
Office Visit: How to Maintain Your Health at Any Age
Sep. 27, 2023
Aging in a healthy way can include many factors.
We have no control over certain factors like genetics. Yet there are several elements that are well within your reach. September is Healthy Aging Month and a good chance to look at a few things you can do to stay healthy as you mature.
- Diet — What we consume on a daily basis plays an increasingly valuable role in our overall health as aging occurs. Adding vegetables, fruit and fiber to your diet will help maintain a healthy weight. Cutting back on salt and sugar also helps control high blood pressure, lower cholesterol and improve blood sugar and digestive health.
- Activity — Current recommendations are for 150 minutes of moderately intense activity per week such as brisk walking, dancing, swimming, mowing the lawn, etc. Find an activity you enjoy. Tracking your activity level can be done through various free apps.
- Hydration — Adequate hydration can help increase energy levels, maintain a healthy weight, improve digestion and slow the development of wrinkles. The adequate daily intake of water varies with your environment, exercise, overall health and whether you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Todd Hoffman, M.D.
- Preventative care — Medical events can become more frequent if patients are not proactive about their health. It’s important to understand the medical history of you and your family. Maintaining regular wellness visits with your primary care provider can help you stay on top of your health.
- Socialize — If you’re an empty nester or retiree, you may find yourself with more free time than you know what to do with. Fill that time with a new hobby, volunteer or even adopt a pet. These activities can fuel a new passion and improve your overall wellbeing.
- Focus time — Sometimes less is more. It can be difficult but learning to say ‘no’ if your schedule seems too busy can be helpful. Doing so can cut down on your stress levels. Another tactic could be developing a consistent bedtime routine. Cutting down on phone to TV screen time before going to sleep can improve mental and physical function.
No matter your age, developing certain habits can help you live your best life.
Make it a good month!
Todd Hoffman, M.D., C.P.E., is chief medical officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, a division of Health Care Service Corp., a Mutual Legal Reserve Company.