Everyone knows the basics for living and aging well - at least they should. Three nurses specializing in senior care offer simple, yet clever, ideas that go beyond healthy eating, plenty of exercise and wishing for the fountain of youth.
Focusing on the 'well side'
Every day, new studies are published proving that eating plenty of fruits and vegetables and exercising regularly will help keep you healthy so you can live well into old age. But what does "living well" really mean?
While nurses and doctors are a great resource to seniors, their focus tends to be on the problems.
"It is important to focus on the 'well side' of a person, too," said nurse Fay Austin, the community health coordinator at University House at Wallingford Retirement community, adding that prevention and planning will help seniors age well.
Here are some practical tips to help everyone live well as they age as offered by nurses from various ERA Care retirement communities throughout North Seattle:
* It is a choice
"Just as you must envision yourself winning the race, you must envision yourself living well and long," said Connie Webster, the community health nurse at Ida Culver House Ravenna retirement community.
Living well into old age must be an expectation and a goal, she said, and choosing to live a long and healthy life begins early in life, so don't wait!
* Prevention to maintain independence
To maintain independence, it is important to be consistent with life-saving habits.
On a regular basis take prescribed medications, maintain a habit of getting regular checkups and tests such as annual mammograms or prostrate exams, and most of all, be realistic.
"A good way to maintain independence is to share some of your health challenges with family, friends and medical providers so they can bring the support to you," said nurse Judy Shannon, director of community health at Ida Culver House Broadview retirement community. "It is all right to ask for a little help. Having a plan can prevent a quick decline."
* Research resources
The University of Washington School of Nursing is an important resource that offers seniors help in living well. From the latest research to opportunities for senior participation, it offers many ways for seniors to maintain a healthy life.
The University of Washington School of Nursing collaborates with ERA Care Communities to offer programs to residents for healthy aging. "It allows us access to the latest resources and information to help residents understand how to stay as healthy as possible," Webster said.
At Ida Culver House Broadview retirement community, the nursing students organized and implemented a walking group, and at University House at Wallingford retirement community, they provide health-related lectures on the latest research and treatments.
* Join and volunteer
It is important to stay active and involved all through life, especially after retirement. Whether it is a hobby, an interest or your family, staying involved keeps your mind stimulated and gives you a reason to get up every day.
Michael Stonebraker, a resident of Ida Culver House Ravenna retirement community, volunteers weekly with the University Cooperative School through the Tallmadge Hamilton House Senior Center.
"The children help keep me young and make life worth living. They infuse new energy," Stonebraker explained.
* Love your feet
Good foot care will keep you healthy by allowing you to remain mobile. For your convenience, most local senior centers offer foot care.
Walking specific distances daily with friends and/or always taking the stairs will help with circulation and mobility.
* Spring-cleaning time/B>>
To stay mobile, it is necessary to prevent falls.
Spring-cleaning is a great time to clear clutter, especially on your floors and in hallways, while checking lights for burnt-out bulbs.
Adequate lighting will allow you to see surfaces better to prevent falls.
* Use the buddy system/m>
Buddies are just as important now as they were before.
Have a daily routine and code with a friend from the senior center or a neighbor. For example, if the blinds are up by 10 a.m., all is well; if not, call for help.
For seniors living in retirement communities, there is an emergency call system you can easily use to contact a staff person day or night.
* Book tips<
The following books provide additional ideas about living well into old age:
"Growing Wiser," by Donald W. Kemper, Molly Mettler, Jim Giuffre and Betty Matzek; and
"Growing Younger," by Donald W. Kemper, E. Judith Deneen and James V. Giuffre
Leslie O'Brien works for ERA Care Communities. Her Senior Style column appears the last week of every other month. E-mail her at needitor@nwlink.com
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