“Harvard research highlights link between midlife dietary habits and successful aging.
We all aspire to age gracefully, but a recent study reveals that fewer than 1 in 10 people can live free of disease while maintaining good physical, cognitive, and mental health past the age of 70. The study indicates that adhering to a healthy diet during midlife may boost your chances of achieving healthy aging.
In terms of particular foods, the researchers found that higher intakes of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, unsaturated fats, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy were associated with greater odds of healthy aging, while higher intakes of trans fat, sodium, total meats, red and processed meats were associated with a lower odds of healthy aging.”
You’re in your 80s! What can you do to be as healthy as possible? Your yearly wellness visit is a good time to talk about your personalized prevention plan. This plan helps keep you well and healthy. If your doctor or nurse accepts Medicare, you will not pay anything for your yearly wellness visit. The yearly wellness visit is not the same as an annual exam or physical. Learn more at Medicare.gov. Get the conversation started at your next wellness visit with this list.
Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity. Each week I will do aerobic activity and exercises to improve my balance and strengthen my muscles. I will talk to my doctor about any conditions that limit my ability to do regular physical activity.
Get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep
Reach and maintain a healthy weight
Get help to quit or not start smoking
Limit alcohol use to 1 drink or less
Not use illegal drugs or misuse prescription drugs
Wear a helmet when riding a bike and wear protective gear for sports
Wear a seat belt in cars and not text and drive
I will talk to my doctor at least once a year about:
My weight, height, diet, and physical activity level
Whether I use tobacco, alcohol, or drugs
Any violence in my life
Depression and any other mental health concerns
Who will make health care decisions for me if I am unable to
I will ask my doctor whether I am at higher risk of or need tests, medicines, or vaccines this year for:
Blood pressure
Breast cancer prevention medicines
Flu
Hepatitis A, B, and C
HIV
Lung cancer (if 80 or younger and if I smoke now or have quit within the last 15 years)
Osteoporosis
Pneumonia
Shingles
Sexually transmitted infections
Tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough
Tuberculosis
Urinary incontinence
The decision to get any medical test or procedure, at any age, is a personal one between you and your doctor. These age ranges may not apply to every person.
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Irene Pastore Fitness.com 