Key ways to look after yourself as you age

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Getting older can be fun, as you look forward to retirement and going on all the adventures you have spent years planning. There are a few things you have to think about though and not take for granted.

Exercise 
Exercise is very important at any age but especially as you get older. You need to ensure you are staying mobile as your joints can start to get stiff. Just 30 minutes of gentle exercise each day is enough to keep you healthy and supple. Think about doing something like cycling or yoga, even swimming is gentle and very good for your body. Exercise also boosts your mood, so if you have been feeling down in the dumps think about doing a workout of some sort. 

You can even do a workout in the comfort of your own home if you don’t fancy venturing out. If you do wish to go out, why not think about joining an exercise class. This is not only a great way of staying fit and motivated but a wonderful way to make friends. Exercise and socialising have been proven to keep the onset of dementia and Alzheimer's at bay as well. 

Diet
You need to think about your diet carefully when you get older, this is due to your metabolism slowing right down. If you continue to eat as you did when you were younger you may be at risk of developing middle-aged spread. You may have heard of this, it is a ring of fat that happens due to it taking longer for your food to be digested.

You should plan what you are going to eat, and eating smaller meals regularly will prevent bloating and indigestion. A healthy balanced diet will keep you satisfied for longer so you don’t feel the need to snack between meals. 

Water is your friend, it always has been. Drinking water has many benefits including healthy radiant looking skin. It not only keeps you hydrated externally but internally as well. Water helps keep your mind hydrated as well, you may not realise that the brain needs water but it does. If you don’t drink enough water you can struggle with memory loss and concentration problems. You will know if you are not drinking enough water as you will get a lovely dehydrated headache. 

Where To Live
Unfortunately, when you get older you have to think about where you will spend the rest of your years. This could be at home, in peace and quiet or you may need to move into a residential home. If you are fit and well there is no problem being in your own home as long as it is suited to your needs. If you or your family find that you are struggling with everyday tasks such as getting about, washing, or cooking then you may need to find a place in a residential care home or assisted living facility. 

There are professionals who can help you with this process as it can be quite daunting. A care home broker will look at what you have available, what your needs are, and then find suitable living arrangements for you. 

We hope you found this guide helpful and that you have a long happy life.