September is Healthy Aging® Month!

Each and every minute we’re alive we are all going through the process called aging. Obviously some ages are looked forward to more than others, but there is no longer need to dread aging. New technology, science and research are proving that as we get older, we often can become better (you do have to work at it). So embrace it, enjoy it and look forward to it!

September is Healthy Aging® Month! So what are some of the important things you can do to age your best?

• Eating the right foods – A combination of 10 veggies and fruits every day are the most recent updated recommended amounts. For those with type 2 diabetes, it’s advised that you consume more of the foods from the vegetable group since they’re lower in carbs and sugars. The wonderful thing about increase your produce intake? You also end up feeling and looking better.
• Staying connected – Those who are more socially connected live longer and happier lives. Look up an old friend or visit new places and make new ones. A great way to do this is to check into local recreation centers that are in a variety of locations across many states. They offer a variety of fitness programs, classes and other activities and events. There is always something to do.  
• Stay Positive – Having a positive attitude helps make us feel younger and stay sharper. Surround yourself with other positive and vibrant people like yourself. Those who are cheerful live an average of 7.5 years longer and are less likely to be sick.
• Exercise – Dedicate at least 2.5 hours every week. On occasion even housework can be counted as exercise when you pick up the pace! Find out more at: https://christinachitwood.com/top-10-housecleaning-workout-tips/
• Try new things! – Your brain never stops learning and it enjoys new sensations, challenges and experiences. Crossword puzzles, learning a new language and reading books that you never thought you would have time too! The possibilities are endless!
• Sleeping right at night – As we age getting adequate sleep and staying asleep frequently becomes an issue. It’s recommended that adults get anywhere from 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Lacking adequate sleep can lead to many health problems including weight gain, accidents on the road and job, a weaker immune system, diabetes, aging skin and diabetes just to name a few.

The problem is that we are often unaware of underlying issues that may be effecting our sleep. Conditions such as excessive snoring, sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, circadian rhythm disorders, nightmares, periodic limb movement disorder/restless leg syndrome, REM behavior disorder, sleep paralysis, sleepwalking and more are cause for sleepless nights.  

If sleep loss is effecting you, you might consider visiting a Sleep Medicine practitioner. These specialist are dedicated to diagnosing and therapy for sleep disturbances and disorders. They will work with you to find any underlying problems and then prescribe the proper treatment so you can sleep soundly at night. When you are able to get the right amount of sleep for you the quality of life rises significantly. So see a sleep doctor, and get some rest!