Many vaccinated older adults are ready to get back out in the world! After more than a year of isolation and quarantine, it may be challenging to know where to begin.
Here are some tips to help you get started:Visit Your Doctor!
Many people have delayed or canceled routine doctor visits and preventive screenings. Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician to get a current health assessment, review medications, and schedule any necessary screenings.
Don’t forget to schedule dental appointments and eye exams as well. Dental and eye health exams are important to your overall health and well-being.
Ease Back Into Physical Activity
Once your doctor has cleared you to resume your regular physical activity, remember to start slowly. Even if you were able to walk a few miles a day, you may want to begin a few trips around the block to get your strength back. Do what you can and pay attention to your body—it will tell you when to stop. A great way to get back into the swing of things is to visit your local YMCA, or community center and start with some exercise classes. It’s also a great way to reconnect or build new friendships!
Nourish Your Body
Eating a well-balanced diet and following your doctor’s or Registered Dietitian’s advice for your particular condition is vital. Here are some ideas for creating healthy meals at home.
As our bodies age and change, our need for food-based nutrients becomes increasingly essential. Eating whole grains and fruits or vegetables with every meal is a great place to start, but paying close attention to proper hydration, sodium, and fat content is critical in fighting off infections and diseases that become more common.
Resume Social Activities
Meaningful connections keep us stimulated and engaged, but the benefits of good company and companionship can be much more straightforward. From everyday reminders to make healthy eating choices to having a walking partner, maintaining an active social life is a key to aging happily and more successfully.
What to do you if you or a loved one is hospitalized? When returning home after hospitalization, it may not be easy to shop and prepare meals. Several Medicare Advantage and Medicaid health plans may offer a home-delivered meals benefit to their members. Those receiving home-delivered meals showed improved nutrient intake and quality of life.
Making sure wholesome foods are available ensures your loved ones have good health while maintaining their independence.
Download our guide to learn more about receiving home-delivered meals!
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