Healthy Habits for Seniors to Adopt in Independent Living Communities

Make the Most of Your Independent Living Experience With 5 Easy to Follow Healthy Habits.

Moving into an independent living community offers you the freedom to enjoy life on your own terms by having access to resources that’ll support your overall well-being. Retirement living communities offer a wide range of services that’ll help support a healthy lifestyle. It’s important to adopt healthy personal habits as we age to promote health and vitality.

Staying physically active, maintaining a healthy diet, keeping your mind sharp, and staying socially connected are key factors of a healthy lifestyle in this chapter of your life.

Here’s a breakdown outlining 5 simple yet life changing habits you can incorporate into your daily routine starting today to make the most out of your independent living experience.

Physical Activity

Time and time again we hear that one of the most important habits anyone should focus on is the discipline of consistent physical activity, especially as we age. Exercise isn’t just for maintaining your weight, it plays a critical role in your mobility, balance, and strength. 

One of the many advantages of residing in a senior living community is participating in the low-impact activities offered such as walking, stretching, or yoga. Each significantly known to improve cardiovascular health, balance, and flexibility. Being in a group exercise class will also make it easier for you to stay motivated and consistent.

The National Institute on Aging recommends older adults should aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week making sure to also include strength training at least two days or more.

Balanced Diet

Do you remember the saying, “You are what you eat”, truer words have never been spoken.

If you’re maintaining an active lifestyle and not following a healthy diet, you’re not completely benefiting from incorporating both into your life. What you eat is just as important as staying active.

A well-balanced diet is scientifically proven to help boost energy, support your immunity, and reduce the risk of chronic health issues such as diabetes, and heart disease. Understanding what a healthy diet consists of is where you should begin, then incorporate a variety of your favorite fresh foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and healthy fats.

The majority of retirement communities provide you with access to well balanced meals that align with any health goals you set and personal preferences.

Brain Health

Mental health is just as important as physical health.

Keeping up with monthly community activities will keep your mind sharp. Studies have shown that lifelong learning and mental stimulation can help reduce the risk of dementia.

Staying mentally engaged doesn’t need to be complicated. The simplest activities like reading, solving puzzles, or learning a new hobby helps you stay mentally engaged.

If you prefer a group setting and mingling with friends, social programs within the senior living community is beneficial. This provides the perfect setting to engage with close friends, have deep conversations while participating in problem-solving activities.

Social Connections

How does spending time with family and friends help my health?

Emotions of loneliness and isolation can have serious negative effects both physically and mentally. The Mayo Clinic reported the risks associated with loneliness are linked to an earlier death, dementia, heart disease, and an increased risk of suffering from a stroke. 

For residents in an independent living community, opportunities for social connections are endless! Nurturing your relationships with loved ones and friends you’ll not only avoid the feeling of loneliness, but also have a supportive network.   

To answer your question, an active social life will drastically improve your overall happiness.

Routine Health Check-ups

Other than moving your body often and eating well, it’s also important to stay on top of your doctor visits for regular check-ups. Independent living communities make your life easier by providing stress-free convenient access to medical staff on-site.

Regularly seeing your doctor will help catch any potential health issues early on and ensure you’re managing any preexisting conditions.

Elevate Your Health with Independent Living at Lakeview at Josey Ranch

Aging gracefully is possible following these five simple health-conscious habits which is a top priority for our residents at Lakeview at Josey Ranch.

Start improving your mental and physical health today by making healthier choices for your mind, body, and soul. The ability to make this happen has never been easier living in a senior living community, where most life-stressors are taken care of, allowing you to focus on nurturing your health to enjoy the vibrant fulfilling life you deserve.

Are you ready for independent living? Schedule a tour and learn how we can help you live the stress-free life you deserve.