Live Better Past 50 – Eight Essential Habits for a Healthier, Longer Life

Embracing the 50s and beyond doesn’t mean you should slow down or neglect healthy habits. Instead, this phase provides a unique opportunity to take on activities and self-care routines that not only enrich your experience but also enhance your well-being and longevity.

1. Reduce Loneliness and Boost Social Interaction

As you age, staying social is crucial. The impact of loneliness on mental and physical health can be significant, especially for older adults who might be disconnected due to relocations, physical limitations or death of loved ones.

“Social isolation has been linked to everything from heart disease and diabetes to cognitive decline and more. A recent advisory from the U. S. Surgeon General reports that social disconnection can shorten lives by about as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.”

2. Keep in Touch with Family and Friends

Physical distance doesn’t have to mean emotional distance. Regular voice and video calls to your family and friends can keep you connected. Organizations such as AARP provide technical assistance tutorials if you need help with the technology.

3. Volunteer

Volunteering is not only a way to contribute but also, it brings immense physical and mental benefits. According to a 2020 study from Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, older adults volunteering as little as two hours per week can significantly reduce their premature death risks.

4. Embrace Learning

Why not pick up a new hobby? Several organizations offer older adults low-cost classes from woodworking to dance. Apart from improving your social life, these activities can also enhance your cognitive skills.

5. Consider Adopting a Pet

A furry friend can provide companionship and motivate you to stay active. Studies indicate that pets can help older adults maintain cognitive functions. However, it’s essential to pick a pet that aligns with your lifestyle.

6. Regular Hearing and Vision Checks

Annual checkups should also include regular monitoring of your vision and hearing. As we age, these senses can deteriorate, leading to additional health issues. Hearing loss, for instance, can increase the likelihood of developing dementia, while vision loss can elevate your risk of falls and other health problems.

7. Prioritize Hearing Care

If you notice changes in your hearing such as needing to turn up the TV volume or difficulty understanding conversations amidst background noise, don’t ignore these signs. Talk to your primary care provider who can refer you to an appropriate specialist.

8. Regular Eye Exams

Vision loss is common as we age, so regular eye exams every one or two years are fundamental. Protect your vision from age-related conditions such as cataracts or macular degeneration.

The 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond can be a beautiful and fulfilling phase of life, ripe with opportunities for personal growth and wellness. By embracing these eight habits, we can strengthen not only our social connections and mental faculties but also our overall physical health, enhancing our golden years’ quality and longevity.

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