- Watch what you eat and drink
It sounds obvious, but having a balanced diet is crucial for good health, energy, and preventing illness. An ideal diet should be low in saturated fat, with lots of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, oily fish, and small amounts of low-fat dairy and lean meat. - Look after your teeth
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Floss helps to prevent gum disease by removing pieces of food and plaque from between the teeth.
If it’s left to build up you might notice sore or bleeding gums, and gum disease can also be linked to diabetes, strokes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Stay active
Daily exercise helps you to stay strong and healthy. This will lower your risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even cancer. If that wasn’t enough, staying active can boost your self-esteem, improve your sleep, and give you more energy. - Make the most of your doctor
It’s a good idea to get some routine tests done at the doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. High readings increase your risk factor for stroke and heart disease but any problems are completely reversible with medication. - Get a vitamin boost
Lots of people have a vitamin D deficiency and don’t know it. In fact, it’s estimated that it affects half of the adult population. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cognitive impairment, bone problems, and also cardiovascular disease. - Take care of your feet
Look after your feet by applying moisturizer to prevent dry skin and cutting your toenails straight across. Make sure you have footwear that fits properly and supports your feet. - Sort out your sleep
Many of us have trouble getting – or staying – asleep as we get older. This can leave you feeling tired and grumpy. - Take the tests
As we age our hearing and eyesight can be affected, so it’s important to get them checked regularly. Hearing loss is common in older people so see your doctor if you have to have the TV on loud or having trouble tuning into conversations. If you need a hearing aid, some are available on the NHS. - Stay in touch
Spending time with other people can prevent you from feeling lonely or anxious. If you find that you are no longer able to do the things you used to do, try to develop new hobbies and interests or think about becoming a volunteer. - Give up smoking
If you didn’t know it already, let us repeat it: smoking is bad for your body and your brain.
