Health Tips for Senior Women
For women 65 and older, staying healthy can require some added considerations. The human body never stops changing, and the importance of continuing healthy habits is key for maintaining strength and vigor. Don’t miss an opportunity to assess your health. Use these fundamental guidelines to maintain your health into your 70s and beyond.
Stay Active
The aging process is often accompanied by new aches and pains, but that doesn’t mean you should stop being active. An active lifestyle can lower your risk of many ailments, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Incorporate a gentle workout into your daily routine. Improving flexibility and mobility may help relieve some muscle aches or joint pains. Over-the-counter braces may be good options to provide extra support.
Manage Health Conditions
The severity of some health conditions can worsen if not properly managed. Don’t wait until there is a problem to take control of your health. See a primary care physician regularly to check on your general well-being. If you have any known conditions, follow the advice given by your health care provider.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women. There are plenty of things you can do to help keep your heart healthy. Eating foods low in salt, trans fat and sugar can reduce your risk of developing heart issues. Check blood pressure levels often to keep an eye on possible hypertension. If it is greater than 140/90, treatment may be needed.
Menopause may come with problems, such as hot flashes, vaginal irritation, and osteoporosis. Talk to your doctor about the many options for hormone replacement therapy that can keep these symptoms at bay. Osteoporosis cannot be cured, so keeping your bones healthy through regular exercise and dietary supplements, including calcium and vitamin D, is vital.
Get Screened
The risk for certain diseases increases for women older than 65. Routine screenings can catch the first signs of cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, and other health conditions.
Mammograms screen for possible signs of breast cancer, using a low-dose X-ray. The technology can catch breast cancer in its earliest stages, before it becomes difficult to treat. Colorectal cancer is becoming more common with changing diets and lifestyles. The symptoms are not always easy to spot, so it is important to have regular screenings. Some suspicious growths may be caught before they become cancerous.
Adding a few extra healthy habits to your lifestyle can greatly reduce the risk of serious, life-threatening diseases. Keep active to relieve minor aches and pains, stay on top of diagnosed health conditions, and get regular health screenings. These small actions can keep you happy and mobile for years to come. For additional concerns or questions, talk with your doctor at Women’s Medical Associates of Nashville.