Healthy Seniors

Oct 8, 2015

By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire

When we reach our 60s, 70s and beyond, it doesn’t mean that we can’t enjoy life as much as, or even more than, we did in our youth. We have more time, more wisdom and greater perspective than ever before and we need to stay healthy and enjoy it!

True, genetics can predetermine some of how we age, but for the most part we can control many of the factors that affect us over time. Many are simple lifestyle choices that can enable us to be healthy and happy seniors.

Physical Health

As we age, bones lose density, which makes them weaker and more prone to fracture, muscles lose strength and flexibility, and cartilage wears down. This leads to loss of strength and poor balance, and falls that can result in injury become a concern.

To compensate for some of these changes, women over 50 and men over 70 should increase calcium from 1000mg a day to 1200mg a day. Vitamin D should also increase from 600IU to 800IU for adults over 70.

A healthy diet of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, high fibre, lean protein and limited saturated fat and sodium provides a substantial amount of these and other vitamins and minerals that our bodies need. It can help us to lose weight if necessary and maintain a healthy weight. Proper eating can also manage disease such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and some cancers. (more…)