Staying young is as much a state of mind as a physical condition. The stress that life brings can take a toll, and the proverbial “gray hair” is just the start of the effects on our bodies. Let’s face it, the last few years have caused many to experience anxiety and worry, which triggers the production of adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones in excess can cause high blood pressure and put undue stress on the heart. Therefore it is important to take care of yourself at any age – but seniors should be mindful of healthy habits, staying “young,” and helping their bodies to age gracefully.

Take a Break: Recent research has shown that meditation or prayer helps prevent age-related brain changes. Seniors should make the effort to sit daily in a quiet place, close their eyes and relax tension in the back and shoulders.
Eat More Fat: This recommendation may surprise you, but not if you understand that “fat” doesn’t mean fried or fast foods. The body needs Omega-3 to stabilize mood, reduce inflammation and support bone strength. Healthy fats stimulate enzymes to utilize fat from storage for use as energy. This can promote overall health and healthy, glowing skin.
Keep Exercising: Routine exercise helps with muscle tone and a healthy body, and also can boost mood and prevent swings in emotion. Walking just ten minutes daily reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s by 40%. Physical exercise lessens stress and anxiety, which helps with cognitive ability. Seniors can choose from many healthy habits such as yoga, biking, swimming, and dancing. yoga can help to maintain flexibility, agility, and serenity – and is a favorite activity for the young at heart.
Seek Relationship: Seniors who seem the most “young at heart” are often surrounded by friends, family, or pets. They embrace life and reject the urge to begin to isolate themselves. If you do not currently have these relationships, reach out – try volunteering, take a walk and talk to neighbors, or ask a long-lost friend to lunch. Taking a class in an area of interest is a great way to make like-minded friends.
Choose a Piece of Fruit: Many superfruits are rich in antioxidants and Vitamins C and E, such as pomegranates, goji berries, and blueberries. Fruit can help to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure, relieve joint inflammation, and may even help minimize the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Did You Know? The goji berry is little known but is powerful in its ability to improve sleep, reduce fat, improve memory, and boost the immune system. all of these things help us to look and feel younger.
Play Games: The AMA contends that brain games can help prevent cognitive decline and improve memory. Crossword puzzles and sudoku are great for strengthening the brain, and many online sites offer brain-training games. Playing games with children is also a great way to stay young and is one of the more enjoyable healthy habits.
Go Outside: The Florida climate offers ample opportunity for fresh air and sunshine, both critical to a healthy mind and body. Sunlight encourages the release of serotonin, a brain chemical that enhances sleep, appetite, and digestion. When it comes to healthy habits, cultivating a garden or taking a walk with a neighbor is easy and enjoyable.
Treat Yourself: Many seniors have lived a life taking care of others and may not be practiced at caring for themselves. no matter your age, take time to splurge a little and treat yourself – whether it be a massage or an ice cream cone. Bring home a bouquet of fresh flowers or go shopping and buy something for yourself that brings you joy.

Seniors who indulge in healthy habits are overall happier and fulfilled. Do you live in an assisted living facility? Speak to the staff about the many opportunities for engagement, learning, exercise, and friendship.

A Banyan Residence is a professional assisted living and memory care center located in The Villages.