Healthy Living

Healthy Living as You Age

By: Zondra Davis, Rn.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Early detection and management of disease is worth its weight in gold! Effectively treating existing disease -PRICELESS! Individuals who have the privilege to enjoy a long, healthy life also have the responsibility LIVE WELL. The following steps are sure to add quality to your life.

Laugh often. If you feel a loss of pleasure and interest for 2 or more weeks, this is not normal aging. Ask your primary health care provider for a depression screening. You deserve to feel better.

Immunizations offer protection against influenza and pneumonia. Get your flu vaccine every year and the pneumonia vaccine once (repeat after five years if recommended by your primary health care provider).

Verify your medications and their side effects with each visit to your primary health care provider and keep an updated list with you.

Eat a balanced diet with daily exercise under the supervision of your primary health care provider. Regular exercise improves balance and strength, and is your best protection against falls.

Weigh-in with friends and family. Regular interaction within a positive social network improves well being.

Engage in diagnostic screening test to screen for cancer, hypertension, hearing, and vision problems. Talk to your primary health care provider about other screening test, early detection of disease improves treatment options.

Leisure that stimulates the mind provides recreation and has cognitive benefits. Puzzles, bingo, reading, writing, and nature walks are examples of activities that benefit well-being.

List important numbers and appointments, this helps you stay organized and keep important medical appointments. Live your best life!!!

References

1. Mauk, K.L. (2006). Gerontological nursing: Competencies for care. Masachusetts: Jones and Bartlett Publishes.

2. www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/spotlite/falls

3. www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/screening

4. www.cdc.gov/vaccines/

5. www.mentalhelp.net/

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Zondra Davis RN (pictured above) with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.