Most people don't think about healthy aging until the signs of aging appear. When they are young, aging is something so far in the distance that it doesn't always have an impact on their decisions. As the years pass, we increasingly begin to examine the things we do and the way we live, and wonder if it will help us age healthily. Evaluating what is being done healthily to age and stepping up one's game to focus on healthy aging may make the difference between being independent or not, and in how long one lives. The good news is that it's never too late to make healthy aging a priority.
"I love it when younger people start out adopting healthy living styles, but I love it as much or more when older people commit," said Jennifer Scherer, a registered dietitian nutritionist, medical exercise specialist, certified personal trainer, and owner of Fredericksburg Fitness Studio. "Healthier aging is in reach for most people. There are a lot of things people can do to support a healthy aging mission.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthy aging is the process of maintaining good physical, mental, and social health and well-being as we grow older. It is something that can be started at any age and focuses on some key areas that can help people stay stronger and healthier throughout their lives. The positive changes that people make can contribute to a healthier experience during aging.
Here are some of the key areas and things that can be done to help support a healthy aging mission:
Stay active. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) reports that physical activity is essential for healthy aging. It provides health benefits, including reducing blood pressure and anxiety, as well as risks for type 2 diabetes, some cancers, and cardiovascular disease. It also helps people sleep better. They recommend engaging in three types of regular exercise, including aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and balance exercises.
Protect the mind. Maintaining mental stimulation is essential as we age. This can be done by reading, playing games, exploring new places, learning new things, getting plenty of sleep, and maintaining social connections. These things will help ensure that the mind ages in a healthier way. Also, be sure to investigate the ways that medications can impact the brain, as certain combinations can cause issues. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), drugs that can impair cognition in older adults include antipsychotics, sleep aides, muscle relaxants, drugs to treat urinary incontinence, and medications that relieve cramps.
Stay balanced. One of the most important things that people can do to assist with healthy aging is to stay balanced. Falls are a significant concern as people age and can lead to disastrous outcomes. Make maintaining one's balance a high priority by engaging in activities such as Pilates and yoga.
Eat healthy. The importance of having a healthy eating lifestyle cannot be understated. Food impacts the body and mind in many ways, making it crucial to make a healthy diet a regular part of one's lifestyle. Learn about nutrition and how to make healthy food choices so that it can provide the body and mind with what they need to age more healthily.
Get support. Having someone help along the way can increase the chances of being successful. Working with a coach or nutritionist can ensure that your needs are being met, your goals are being achieved, and your commitment to healthier aging is renewed. Getting support is an investment in oneself and can help improve and meet longevity goals.
“Many people find it challenging to stick with the healthier changes they want to make," added Scherer. "This is when you want to get help, so that it becomes a long-term lifestyle. We help people set goals, achieve them, and live healthier lives as they age. Our classes focus on mobility, balance, strength training, brain-boosting fitness, and more.”
Fredericksburg Fitness Studio has helped many people through its semi-private sessions, which focus on Pilates and strength training. They also help with mobility, and focus on fall reset. They are a boutique studio that focuses on quality, providing a more personalized instruction approach, social support, and luxury amenities. Fredericksburg Fitness Studio offers two locations, and its reformer Pilates fitness training program is a fun and unique exercise method with many benefits. The reformer can be used while sitting, standing, or lying down, providing a great workout. The program helps with strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, core control, and other key areas. FFS is excited to announce they are now a Medicare provider. Also, Jennifer Scherer and her husband, Jeff Smith, have a podcast focusing on holistic wellness and financial planning for retirement. The Fitness & Finance Radio podcast offers a look at essential topics to know about keeping healthy and how it can impact their overall finances in retirement. To learn more about Fredericksburg Fitness Studio, visit the site: https://www.fburgfitness.com.
