Keep physical
Moderate exercise does wonders for mobility, balance and mood; it also helps to manage chronic issues like blood pressure and heart health. Try to do 30 minutes daily.
Stay social
After a year of lockdown ups and downs, staying socially active is really important for mental health. Go for a stroll with your spouse or a friend, reconnect with people you haven’t spoken to, join a bridge club or consider moving to a retirement village. You could also adopt a rescue pet if you’re able or would love the companionship. Caption: Keep up your social life and doing the things that make you happy
Maintain a balanced diet
Eat a diet high in fibre and low in saturated fat. Don’t eat too much red meat, full-fat dairy or processed foods. Rather opt for a Mediterranean-style eating plan with lots of olive oil, nuts, seeds, fruit, and vegetables, wholegrains and fish.
Schedule medical check ups
And stick to them! Take your medication and supplements as directed by your doctor
Limit alcohol and quit smoking
It’s never too late!
Get enough sleep
Avoid sleeping tablets and opt for natural sedatives like a warm cup of chamomile tea at bedtime.
Keep up dental hygiene
Visit the oral hygienist and dentist at least once a year.
Get your finances and affairs in order
If you don’t have a financial advisor, ask a family member or trusted friend to help with things like medical aid, accounts and your pension.
Stay hydrated
It’s essential to keep hydrated, but beware you don’t drink too much and start flushing any vital minerals.
Do what makes you happy and live life to the full
This is perhaps the most important advice of all.
Warning signs
Consult your GP if you suffer from any of these conditions:
- Sudden dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Pressure in your chest area
- Tingling or numbness on one side of your body
- Loss of balance and coordination
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Excessive sweating
- Sudden loss or blurred vision
- Rapid weight loss
- Prolonged confusion
- Wounds that don’t heal
- Swelling despite having no injury.
