Written By: Editorial Team | Published : December 4, 2013, 5:30 PM
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It starts with a thorough review of the individual's medical history, including past falls, chronic conditions (e.g., arthritis, diabetes), medications, and any neurological or musculoskeletal issues affecting balance and mobility. Other assessments include the Fall Risk Assessment Tool (FRAT), Timed Up and Test(TUG), Gait Test, and vision and hearing evaluations.
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Fruits and vegetables contain loads of fibre, vitamins and minerals which keep your body fit and prevent diseases. Antioxidants present in fruits and vegetables fight old-age 'accelerators' known as free radicals and slow down the effects of ageing. A good intake of foods containing vitamin B has been shown to reverse mitochondrial decay which is a key ageing process. Omega 3 fatty acids like flax seeds and nuts promote heart health. Eating more greens, leafy vegetables containing lutein and zeaxanthin has been shown to decrease changes of age-related macular degeneration of the eyes.
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During these appointments, your doctor can monitor health indicators. Schedule a check-up with your doctor this monsoon if you have not had one recently.
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Good sex releases endorphins (or the happy hormones), boosts immunity, and increases the bond with your loved one. It also increases circulation, releases growth hormones which help maintain muscle mass and bone density. All these are needed to stay fit and agile as you age. Though there may be some challenges like erectile dysfunction in men, lack of lubrication in women, you could still consult a good doctor and seek solutions.
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The body you had when you were younger might still be able to take all the abuse owing to junk food. However, as you start ageing, your body’s metabolism slows down, needs fewer calories and is more prone to disease due to junk food. Cut down on foods which accelerate ageing – foods with high sugar content or sweeteners, caffeine (from coffee or tea), processed foods or oily and fried food. Stick to fresh, home-cooked food as much as possible.
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Don’t get stuck in a rut. As you age, try a new hobby, try some new recipes, travel to new places, learn a new language or pick up a new skill. Working your brain and using your creativity has been shown to arrest cognitive decline and memory problems.
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Agreed you can multitask and work for 12 hours a day. But do you know your body gets worn and needs time for repair? If your body is fatigued and wants you to relax, recognise the signs. Listen to your body to slow down the wear and tear. Get at least 6-7 hours of good quality sleep every day. This improves the body’s repairing capacity and you can expect to age healthily.
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Smoking, drinking too much alcohol and chewing tobacco are all risk factors for developing various chronic diseases including cancer and hasten ageing. Most of these work by releasing free radicals which cause damage to various organ systems causing disease. While smoking and chewing tobacco should be completely avoided, moderate drinking (especially red wine) has been shown to have good effects on your health.
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In the day and age of Facebook, where we have 200+ friends, why are people still so depressed and lonely? Physically ‘meeting’ and spending time with friends and family isn’t overrated. It reduces stress and keeps all the hormones in balance, thus boosting immunity and health. And as you age, this is even more important.
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As you age, your teeth wear out. The amount of bone holding your teeth in place decreases, your gums recede. This makes the teeth loose and prone to loss. If you’re a smoker or chew tobacco, these effects are accelerated. So, take good care of your teeth – brush the right way, floss regularly, visit a dentist every six months. After all, you need your full set of natural teeth to look good and chew well in your old age.
The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.
