National Wellness Month: Healthy Aging Ideas for Porterville Seniors

Did you know that wellness has a history dating back to ancient Rome? Even thousands of years ago, humans understood the importance of taking care of their health.

As priorities shift, you might let your wellness decline. If you're a senior in Porterville, CA, consider participating in National Wellness Month this August as a stepping stone to getting back on track with an active retirement lifestyle. 

Ready to learn more? In this article, we will dive into some of the wellness tips for seniors and community health resources that can keep you in top shape during your golden years. 

Attend Senior Wellness Events

Wellness events specifically geared toward seniors offer several advantages not found in events for other age groups. For example, events may occur during the week, as retirees are more likely to attend. 

In addition, these events may also be more accessible for attendees with mobility issues. If you are a veteran, check the calendar at your local Department of Veterans Affairs office for wellness events that may interest you.

Some examples of senior wellness events include: 

• Fitness and exercise classes
• Nutritional workshops 
• Mindfulness and meditation sessions 
• Local volunteer opportunities
• Group outings with other seniors 

Although there may be an increase in events in your area during National Wellness Month, look for wellness events outside of August. You can fill your calendar and focus on health and well-being all year round. 

Maintain an Active Retirement Lifestyle 

Staying active during retirement can be challenging, as many older adults face mobility issues and declining health that may discourage them from exercising.

However, exercising correctly and within your limitations can help you improve or maintain your body. Regular workouts keep your joints limber and keep your cardiovascular system healthy. 

As a senior, try to aim for some movement every day. Take rest days if needed, but still try to prioritize fitness as a regular part of your lifestyle. 

See if your senior living community offers fitness classes or workout equipment. Even a simple walk can boost your heart rate, get your legs moving, and help you connect with the outdoors. 

Do you prefer exercising alone? Many videos are available for streaming online that offer home-based workouts. These videos often require minimal equipment and space, allowing you to do them from the comfort of your home.

Some of the benefits of home workouts include: 

• Convenience
• Little to no equipment required
• Time efficiency 
• Lower cost (as opposed to a gym membership)

Remember, it is important to discuss any major lifestyle changes with your medical team, including a new exercise regimen. Depending on your current health conditions and medications, your doctor may recommend modifying your workouts or scaling back on exercise altogether. 

Focus on a Nutritional Diet 

As you age, it may seem tempting to abandon healthy eating principles for a more indulgent lifestyle. Treating yourself to sweets and processed foods is a simple way to get a quick dopamine rush. 

However, maintaining balance is crucial for a healthy diet. It is important to fill your plate with nutrient-rich options, such as: 

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Beans
• Legumes
• Healthy fats
• Fish 

You can still enjoy a bowl of ice cream or a bag of chips, but ensure that those foods are in moderation. In addition, try to limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking, if you're able. 

At Sierra Hills, you won't have to worry about whether your meals are healthy and nutritious. Our chef-prepared dining service ensures that our residents receive high-quality meals that accommodate a wide variety of dietary needs and preferences. 

Prioritize Sleep Hygiene

Getting enough shut-eye is paramount in your senior years. Although seniors generally need less sleep than other groups, quality sleep is just as important as the quantity of sleep.

If you find yourself waking up groggy, consider your bedtime routine. Try to maintain a schedule, if possible. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day; avoid sleeping in until your body adjusts to the new cycle. 

There are also steps you can take to improve your quality of sleep, such as: 

• Invest in blackout curtains to block out extra light.
• Purchase a noise machine or use an app to create soothing sounds. 
• Spray calming scents on your pillows and sheets, such as lavender or eucalyptus. 
• Avoid screens before bed and opt for analog options instead, like physical books and magazines. 

Connect With Other Seniors

When your children move out of the house and you're no longer going to work every day, it can be challenging to socialize. As a senior, it may seem easier to retreat indoors, put on a television show, or engage in a hobby that doesn't require socializing with others.

Taking time for yourself is healthy, but pay attention to patterns of isolation. If you find yourself avoiding going out or failing to respond to calls or messages, it may be time to face your fears. 

Get to know others in your senior living community or neighborhood. Check out the activity calendar to see if any events interest you. If one of your hobbies is not listed, consider starting your own group or club. 

Reaching out to others can be especially daunting if you're going through a major loss. Often, grieving can cause increased feelings of loneliness and isolation. 

Instead of eating alone, try to enjoy meals with others. Sharing a meal is one of the best ways to connect with people in a comfortable environment. 

Celebrate National Wellness Month at Sierra Hills

If you're looking for something to do in the month of August, consider celebrating National Wellness Month. With these wellness tips for seniors, you can cultivate an ideal lifestyle for healthy aging in Porterville. 

At Sierra Hills, we provide our residents with a lifestyle that emphasizes health and well-being. With exclusive programs such as chef-prepared dining and concierge services, we're dedicated to giving our residents the best quality of life possible.

Are you ready to see it for yourself? Reach out to us today, or visit our location in Porterville, CA, to tour our beautiful campus. We can't wait to meet you!