Age is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer, and a variety of other illnesses. However, just because you are getting older doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to stay as healthy as possible. With preventive care, technology, and healthy habits, you can increase longevity, improve immunity, and lower the risks of contracting a number of diseases.

 

Preventive Care

As you age, annual physicals and preventive screenings become more and more important. You need to catch cancer and other diseases early for the best chances of recovery. When it’s time to renew your health insurance, compare Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage plans to figure out the best choice for you. The Medicare Open Enrollment period runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. During this time period, you can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (and vice versa). You can also change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, as well as add or switch your Medicare Part D plan (prescription drug coverage).

Medicare Advantage plans are legally required to cover everything covered by Original Medicare, plus many offer other benefits such as dental, hearing, and vision care, as well as prescription drug coverage, wellness programs, and gym memberships. Compare the premiums, copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles of various plans, as well as the list of benefits, to determine which plan will meet your needs.

 

Daily Exercise

Exercise is vital for people of all ages since it can benefit your blood pressure, sleep habits, and all other areas of life. One way to track your physical activity level is by using smartphone apps. If you’d like to upgrade your current phone, look for a new phone that has the capacity to run a variety of apps. The Samsung Galaxy S10 is a top choice with its high processing speed, durable Gorilla Glass, and super quick wireless charging capability. If you are more of an Apple fan, then check out the new iPhone 11 Pro Max, which has an amazing triple camera system and fingerprint-resistant glass. In addition to having a great smartphone, you should also look into getting an unlimited data plan so you can use your new phone as much as you’d like.

Some of our favorite exercise apps for seniors include:

  • Johnson & Johnson’s 7 Minute Workout – This app is great if you are on a time crunch and want to get in a quick but effective
  • Runkeeper – This app tracks your speed, distance, and routes with GPS, whether you are hiking, biking, or training for a marathon.
  • Instant Heart Rate – This app allows you to monitor your heart rate accurately and easily by putting the tip of your finger on the camera lens.

 

Healthy Eating

Exercise isn’t enough to stay healthy. You also need to eat well. According to reports by the World Health Organization (WHO), a majority of the diseases that older people suffer from are the result of an improper diet. Seniors should eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, beans, lean meats, and low-fat dairy. At any age, to stay healthy, you should limit empty calories such as foods high in sugar or with little nutritional value. Apps like MyFitnessPal allow you to easily track your caloric intake while monitoring your weight each day. This app also has a barcode scanner to record foods, as well as hundreds of cardio and strength exercises.

Taking care of every aspect of your health can increase your chances of living a long, healthy life. Getting annual check-ups, exercising regularly, and eating properly are some of the most important things you can do for yourself. With the right tech tools and healthy habits, you can boost your immunity, lower your risk for a number of diseases, and improve your overall health.

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About the Author

Jason Lewis is a personal trainer, and in 2002 he became the primary caretaker for his mother after her surgery. During this time he realized there is a special need for trainers that can assist the seniors in our community. Jason worked with his mother’s doctor, as well as other personal trainers, to create programs that are considerate to the special health needs of those over the age of 65.