Protective Factors That Support Senior Health and Wellness

Written By: Summer Place
Protective Factors That Support Senior Health and Wellness

According to a survey done by the McKinsey Health Institute (MHI), respondents living in countries with higher healthy life expectancy in old age don't necessarily report better perceived health. While it's certainly true that we have higher life expectancies nowadays, that's not always a good thing for older adults.

The fact is that your quality of life matters much more significantly than your total years lived. Seniors need a wide variety of protective factors to ensure that they're living happy and healthy lives, but these may be hard to address if you don't know what they are.

So what are they, and what can you do to boost your quality of life in Chelmsford, MA? Read on to find out.

Regular Physical Activity

One of the most effective healthy aging strategies is to get regular physical activity. And you don't have to do anything crazy either. Even low-impact activities can help improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and enhance your balance.

Exercises to try include:

  • Walking
  • Swimming
  • Tai chi
  • Chair exercises

These exercises can also lower the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis. In addition, they can lower your fall risk, which, according to the CDC, is a leading cause of injury among older adults.

You don't just get physical benefits from exercise either. For example, it can boost your mood by reducing stress and promoting the release of endorphins.

If you integrate regular movement into your daily routine, then it's more likely that you'll maintain independence longer and experience a better quality of life.

Nutritious and Balanced Diet

What you eat can have a great impact on how you feel, so a well-rounded diet is the foundation of senior wellness. You should consume nutrient-rich foods, like:

  • Lean proteins
  • Leafy greens
  • Whole grains
  • Omega-3-rich fish

The above can all support immune function, bone strength, and cognitive health. For anything that you're lacking in your diet, you can take supplements, such as vitamins for eyesight.

You should avoid excessive sugar, sodium, and processed food. By doing so, it'll help protect against obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Hydration is equally important, too, since seniors are more prone to dehydration. 

Strong Social Connections

Michigan Medicine says that a third of older adults experience loneliness and isolation. This can significantly harm your health by increasing your risk of depression, cognitive decline, and even mortality.

This means that senior social activities are not just nice-to-haves; they're necessary. If you build and maintain strong social networks, then it'll create emotional support and strengthen your resilience during stressful times.

You should consider participating in:

  • Senior centers
  • Clubs
  • Faith-based activities

Even virtual connections can be beneficial. Have video calls or join online communities, as these can still play protective roles.

Preventive Healthcare and Regular Screenings

To prevent serious health complications from developing, early detection is key. Be proactive about your own health and get regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations, as these will help protect against preventable diseases. In addition, they'll allow your healthcare providers to monitor any changes in your health.

Screenings can also catch problems early when treatment is most effective, such as cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Make sure you get the following for preventive care:

  • Dental checkups
  • Vision exams
  • Hearing tests

Cognitive Engagement and Lifelong Learning

Keeping your brain active is a powerful protective factor, as it'll make you resistant to cognitive decline. Consider these activities:

  • Doing puzzles
  • Reading
  • Playing musical instruments
  • Learning new skills

If you participate in lifelong learning, you'll have improved problem-solving skills and reduced risk of dementia. Plus, it can foster a sense of purpose and achievement, and in turn, you'll have better emotional well-being and resilience.

Stress Management and Emotional Resilience

Speaking of resilience, senior mental health is no small matter. Chronic stress can negatively impact both your mental and physical health. Not only will you feel terrible, but it can also increase your risks of:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

That means it's essential for you to seek emotional support for seniors. With the right tools, you'll be better equipped to cope with life changes and health challenges.

Stress management techniques can include:

  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Deep breathing
  • Yoga
  • Journaling

With these practices, you'll experience higher levels of life satisfaction. In addition, you'll have lower risks of mental health issues.

Safe and Supportive Living Environment

Feeling safe in your living environment is a must for people of all ages, but it's especially important for older adults. They're more prone to falls, after all, so you need to be proactive in preventing accidents to foster independence.

There are modifications you can make to your living space for better safety, such as:

  • Grab bars
  • Non-slip mats
  • Adequate lighting
  • Mobility aids

If you move to a senior living community, then you'll get all of the above independent living benefits easily!

Beyond safety, you should also have good access to transportation, community resources, and caregiving when needed. When you feel secure in your home and community, you'll experience:

  • Less stress
  • Greater mobility
  • Stronger confidence

Purposeful Living and Meaningful Engagement

Having a sense of purpose can be deeply protective for older adults. Often, after they retire, they find themselves with too much time on their hands, especially after their children have grown up and set off on their own.

Keep yourself busy with things like:

  • Volunteer work
  • Creative pursuits
  • Caregiving
  • Community leadership

Seniors who feel needed and valued often experience lower rates of depression and cognitive decline. Also, it'll be easier to have positive routines, stronger social connections, and better mental resilience.

Keep Up With Protective Factors in Your Life

There's a wide variety of protective factors that can help seniors thrive. It may seem like a lot, but if you tackle each thing a step at a time, you'll find it manageable.

Plus, it's worth investing in your own well-being. When all the pieces come together, you'll see your golden years become more pleasant and relaxing.

Contact us today if you want to learn more about senior living in Chelmsford, MA. Summer Place has competitive rates starting at only $2,676!

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