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Stay Active
To enjoy your retirement to its fullest, the first step you take should be focusing on staying healthy and independent through an active lifestyle. Staying physically active and exercising regularly can help prevent or delay many diseases and disabilities. For example, light exercise strengthens the immune system and is a key contributor to weight management. Health care professionals recommend older adults combine strength, balance, stretching and endurance exercises to promote optimal health.
- Strength exercises will increase muscle and metabolism, which in turn helps maintain a healthy weight.
- Balance exercises will build leg muscles and help prevent falls, which could result in a broken hip.
- Stretching exercises can give you more freedom of movement, which will help you to be more active, when combined with endurance and strength exercises.
- Endurance exercises are any activity that increases your heart rate and breathing for an extended period of time.
Don't be afraid to exercise — even if you've been inactive for years, research shows it is safe for people of all ages. However, be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin any exercise program. They are aware of any health risks you may have and will be able to recommend exercises that are right for you.
Don't forget to exercise your brain
Part of your exercise regime should include mental stimulation. Mental and physical exercise increases your endorphins, which make you feel good, as well as your serotonin levels, which elevate your mood and prevent depression. Mental stimulation also makes your brain more resilient and strengthens the immune system.
Research has shown that your brain will continue to develop throughout your lifetime. Here are some ways you can keep it in top form:
- Reading
- Writing
- Attending lectures
- Taking classes
- Playing bridge or chess
- Doing crossword or Sudoku puzzles
The important thing is to do things you enjoy and make them part of your lifestyle. When you take care of your physical and mental health, you're more likely to spend your retirement years in good health.
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