Taking the right steps to a healthy retirement

Healthy living is a long-term commitment, not a flash-in-the-pan fad. But there are steps you can take right now that will make today healthier than yesterday and pave the way for healthy living as you near retirement age.

If your intention is to retire and sit around all day, your health will deteriorate.

If you retire and hit the gym while eating tons of fruits and vegetables, your health will improve.

People who are working can have terrible health if they sit around all day and stress out, so forget about your impending retirement, look at your daily habits and decide which ones need some improvement.

Here is a list to get you started:

● Fruits and Vegetables: You need to eat between 5 and 9 servings of fruit and vegetables every day. This is your number one nutritional mission. You can do this simply by adding 2 servings to your day every week. By the end of the month, you’ll be there.

● Keep a food diary: Write down everything you eat for a day. You can’t change what you are not aware of or don’t acknowledge.

● Exercise: How much physical activity do you get in a typical week? You need to exercise every day. What you choose for your exercise will depend on your health and your interests. Be sure to do a variety of exercises to build strength, flexibility, cardiovascular health and balance.

● Brain Health: Your brain needs some exercise too. Find ways to stimulate your brain into learning new things and keep the cobwebs from growing up there.

● Check your mood and energy: Healthy living includes emotional wellness and adequate rest. How has your mood been lately? Are you experiencing any symptoms of depression or anxiety?

● Sleep: All adults need to sleep between 7 and 9 hours every night. As you age, this gets difficult, especially if you are taking medications or have a health condition. Train your body to have excellent sleeping skills, and avoid the bad habits of retirees who take long afternoon naps.

● Relaxation: Don’t forget to relax. Some of the most stressed out people can be those who are retired. They just transfer their work day stress into their retired lives. Find a structured way to relax every day. Try meditation to help you relax and give your brain a workout at the same time.

● Relationships: Your relationships with people can help you live longer. How strong are your connections with family and friends? Be sure to nurture your friendships and family relationships. If you are away from friends and family, think about volunteering – it is a great way to meet people and get the health benefits of relationships too.

● Get a handle on your present health status: Make appointments with your doctor and dentist.

Catch up on your routine screening and immunisations, and take the opportunity to ask your doctor any questions you might have.

If you’re not thrilled with the answers to some of those questions, remember that the point is to figure out where you are today so you can set your healthy living goals. It isn’t about being good or bad or right or wrong.

Addressing some of these issues isn’t necessarily a do-ityourself task. Partner with your doctor. Make the phone call today to schedule that appointment.