We\u2019re living longer than ever before, and the importance of elderly health is taking on a whole new significance as our population ages. Fortunately, there are a growing number of resources, tips and tools out there on how to be old and healthy. We\u2019ve taken the liberty of distilling things down to four focus areas:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Stay in shape <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Of all the senior care tips out there, maintaining your physical health is going to be your best bet at living an independent life.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Regular exercise also help you enhance strength, flexibility and balance \u2013 all key in preventing senior falls. A stronger, fitter body is also better able to ward off illness and bounce back faster from falls and other injuries.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Senior citizen exercise doesn\u2019t have to be strenuous; aim for about 30 minutes of physical activity a day. Start off slow with a few minutes of walking and then gradually build from there as you feel stronger.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Eat smarter <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Healthy eating for seniors can have its share of challenges. As your body changes, you may experience a decrease in appetite or have issues with chewing, swallowing and digestion. It also may be more difficult to shop for and prepare your own food.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Canada\u2019s Food Guide<\/a> generally recommends seniors incorporate fruits, veggies (fresh, frozen or canned), whole grain foods and lean proteins, like fish, chicken and beans. Dieticians of Canada also have a number of great resources<\/a> and fact sheets when it comes to planning and prepping balanced meals.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n If cooking at home isn\u2019t possible, there are several home food delivery services out there that cater specifically to senior diets.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Make your home more accessible <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n A few key tweaks could help make your home safer and more accessible. Consider installing grab bars in your bathtub or shower or replace your existing tubs with walk-in tubs and showers. Build outdoor ramps in place of stairs and switch to anti-slip flooring material to help eliminate the risk of trips and falls.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n