Men over the age of 60 need to be more proactive about their health. If elderly men make healthy lifestyle choices, ranging from eating right to exercising, they can ward off several medical conditions. Here are five tips for senior men who want to start taking their health seriously.
1. Get an Annual Physical
An annual physical is crucial for elderly men. Doctors can check up on key health metrics like heart rate, cholesterol levels, and weight. If there are any large year-to-year changes, it could be an indication of a developing condition.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional live-in care. Roseville, CA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Consider Health Screenings
Aging men should consider colorectal health screenings every three years, which may be accompanied by a prostate-specific antigen blood test. Diabetes screenings should be conducted every three years as well, or more often for men at high risk for the condition. To ensure eye health, senior men should schedule a glaucoma screening once or twice a year. Men can also visit their dermatologist for a skin cancer screening and ask their general practitioner about a bone density test.
3. Manage Stress
High stress levels can have a major impact on health, especially for men at risk for cardiovascular conditions. Excessive stress can weaken the immune system, raise blood pressure levels, and lead to other health issues. There are many ways to de-stress, and every senior man will need to find the one that works best for him. Some men find mindfulness meditation effective, while others can benefit from exercising.
Aging adults who need help exercising should consider professional in-home care. Roseville home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
4.Drive Safely
Many senior men get injured in preventable car accidents. Safe driving is one of the easiest ways to be proactive about health. Senior men should buckle their seat belts whenever they sit in a car. When driving, seniors should follow the speed limit, use their turn signals, and exercise caution. If they feel too sleepy to drive, they should pull over rather than risk an accident.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is important for aging men, as overweight seniors are at high risk for cardiovascular conditions and diabetes. While weight is an important indicator, men shouldn’t let the number on the scale be their sole motivator. To stay physically fit, senior men should follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen as prescribed by their doctors. A senior man’s diet should include nutrient-filled fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and exercise regimens can be a mix of cardio and strength training.
Helping seniors make healthy lifestyle choices can be a challenging task. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Roseville, CA, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. Call one of our friendly Care Managers at 916.226.3737 to schedule a free in-home consultation.