8 ways to stay healthy when you retire

• Exercise
• Eat Well
• Play Games
• Socialize
• Take a Class
• Limit Alcohol Intake

Retirement is one of those experiences that we talk about, yet it always seems just out of reach. We plan, prepare, and line up all our ducks in a row so when the time comes, we can enjoy the retirement we imagined. And when it comes, it can be a unique sensation like no other.

Some continue to work in some capacity, while others choose to travel or take up new hobbies. There is one obstacle, however, that can hamper any retirement plans, and that is your personal health.

Without good health while in retirement, you may find yourself spending more time in doctors’ offices and resting at home than doing what you planned. The good news is that you can do many things to take care of yourself in retirement to enjoy it to the fullest.

Statistics when you retire

In Nigeria, the average age people retire at is 60 years. The average life expectancy is 53.95. And while there are common health issues that come at that age, there are medical solutions for all of them. From vision loss to hearing loss, modern medicine has allowed for concerns such as these to become less of an issue when you retire. Despite these common ageing issues, there are many ways to stay healthy when you retire to minimise or prevent further complications that can come with age in general. Below are 8 ways to stay healthy when you retire.

Get Your Shots

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, between 71 and 85 percent of flu-related deaths in recent years have occurred in people over 65. This means that you need to get your flu vaccine yearly. In addition, speak to your doctor about other vaccines for illnesses such as shingles and types of pneumonia when you retire. Moreover, you will want to wash your hands and take other common sense steps on a daily basis to avoid the spread of germs. This includes taking the proper vitamins that your doctor recommends. This kind of preventative maintenance can go a long way in reducing sickness during your retirement and keeping it a happy one.

Exercise

The benefits of exercise for people who retire is well documented. It can help regulate mood, manage stress, and increase self-esteem. In addition, exercise can prevent disease and help improve circulation of blood to the extremities. It also helps keep bones strong and improves balance to help lessen the chance of a fall. And exercise does not have to be scary or vigorous. A nice brisk walk around the mall or neighborhood is a good start. You will see your cognitive function improve and feel better for moving. And your retirement experience will benefit.

Eat Well

Eating well in retirement is essential to a happy one. The benefits of eating well are well researched and wide reaching. Eating well promotes energy and helps reduce the risks of heart disease. It also helps with weight control, which is important as we age. Being less active and gaining weight at an older age can lead to higher chances of heart-related diseases such as strokes and type 2 diabetes. These can hamper any plans in retirement permanently. Eating well does not have to be complicated. Try to get a mix of food from on your plate from all food groups at each meal, and start small. Try eliminating one thing or adding one thing at a time. Also, consult your doctor or a trained nutritionist.

Play Games

That’s right! Play games. Play card games, board games, crossword puzzles, actual puzzles, and more. Playing games helps to keep your mind sharp and increase memory retention when you retire. In fact, studies show that increased gameplay and activity can help reduce the risk of dementia quite a bit. Play solitaire or pick up a paper and try the crossword puzzle. Exercise your brain just like your body. Your retirement plans will thank you as you relish them because you are more focused due to game playing.

Socialise

According to a senior citizen association, lack of socialisation as a senior can lead to negative impacts on health and mental well-being. Book clubs, writing clubs, game clubs, dances, and more are great ways to get out and socialise. Not only does it allow you to meet new people and make your retirement more full, but it also helps you improve the quality of your life. Try Zumba, join the local YMCA, or visit a senior day care to see what activities they offer. The options are endless. This is one of the most important aspects of staying healthy in retirement.

Take a Class

This suggestion provides a combination of benefits listed in the earlier suggestions. That is why it is such a potent but simple suggestion. Taking a class, any kind of class, can help you socialise, improve your cognition, and, if it is a physical one, get you to exercise. Learning something new also helps you feel excited and more engaged in your own life. Plus, you may make new friends that become a part of your retirement landscape.

Limit Alcohol Intake

Regular alcohol consumption affects all areas of your body. It affects your brain, heart, immune system, and pancreas and impairs your vision and balance. While moderation is fine, such as a glass of wine or beer every so often, heavy consumption is not recommended. The side effects on your physical health and mental well-being can be devastating. From a fall that injures you to feeling depressed, drinking will hamper your retirement plans and could even take you away from them for large amounts of time.

Stay Safe

While this may be a consideration many overlook, safety is important when you retire. This does not mean learn karate or carry a heavy bat. This means prep your home with emergency alert equipment, make your home comfortable to sit and sleep in with the proper back and neck support, and have good lighting as well as a clear and clean floor to avoid accidental slips.

Source: Telecare24