HEALTH

Health is everything! Without it we have nothing. What good is a ship full of gold, in an ocean of misery and illness? Any physician will tell you, the key to maintaining your best health and living longer is to stay active, both mentally and physically. Along with staying connected to others and the world around you, life is extended by these practices. On this page, let's look at what this all means.

1) Physical Activity - At the least, keep moving for several minutes a day, three days a week. Do what you are capable of doing, until after a while, you can do a little more. Sometimes our age can limit what we can do physically, so consult your physician and develop a plan with them before embarking on any exercise program or participating in any sport.

2) Mental Activity - The previously mentioned physical activity is good for your brain because it gets the old juices flowin' in there and vitalizes those lobes. But in addition, you need to stimulate those vortexes by engaging in an activity that requires the old noggin to function. Playing any game is a good start to a healthy mental regime. Take time out during the week to play one, either with other people or by yourself. There are hundreds of games and activities to occupy one's mind on the internet. Online games, downloadable games, printable games, some for free, most require a subscription of some sort.

Nonetheless, keep the marbles in that skull rollin' around. Don't just sit there and watch "Gunsmoke" all day, gitty up and engage in something! Another way to juggle those cranial hemispheres is to learn something new. Find a subject online you've always been interested in and absorb more about it. You can sign up for a class at the local community college, activity center, or library. Maybe even go back to school and get that degree. We teach in our later years, either with credentials or not.

Another way to stay active is to start an online business. It's never too late and for some it may be a necessity. The online business scenario is perfect for retired folks because you can work when you want, most of the time. The rewards are there even if you fail, because you made the effort, accomplished something, and learned from it.

3) Your Relaxation - Conversely now, some of us may attempt to pursue the above-mentioned activities a little too fervently and wind up injured or overworked. This is where we must balance the physical and the mental with rest. Hey! You know ... watching "Gunsmoke" all day may be what is needed when someone has to recover from an injury or illness. The same can be said if you've spent too much time on the computer. Turn off everything and sit in silence. Basically, take a break! And at our age, take a few of them.

4) Your Doctors - You should develop a relationship with your doctors. The kind of relationship between scientist and subject. Have a dialog with them when you visit and ask all your questions. That doctor, whether he/she be your General Practitioner, Dentist, or Specialist is only human and will converse with you. You can even disagree with them sometimes and get a second opinion. But, for the most part, they know what they're doing and the need to follow their instruction is crucial, especially after we're 50+.

5) Your Medicines - It's wise to research and get to know your drugs. Dare to ask your doctor about the side effects and how they may interact with other pharmaceuticals or supplements you're taking. Be aware of what you're taking whether it be prescribed by a physician or dentist, just as you would if you were purchasing something over the counter.

6) Your Supplements - Please try to follow your doctor's advice when it comes to taking vitamins and supplements. If approved or even suggested by your doctor, these nutritional additives can enhance your metabolism, digestion, blood pressure, and even glucose levels.

7) Your Nutrition - It really doesn't matter if you believe in evolution or not. All of us old pharts agree, that most people in our society today, especially the young ones, are basically primates with credit cards. So, we should try and fashion our daily consumption to that of a chimpanzee. Mostly fruits and vegetables with some meat and fish from time to time. Try to stay hydrated and stay away from sugar and salt. Make sure to follow through when your doctor orders lab work.

"It's not how old you are. It's how you are old." - Jules Renard

The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or seen on this website.