According to research, nearly 95% of older adults have a chronic condition like diabetes, arthritis and heart disease.
So, what can be done to improve this troubling trend?
Dr. Ardeshir Hashmi, who specializes in geriatric medicine at Cleveland Clinic, said the first step is to get moving.
“Our understanding now from science is that even ten minutes of physical exercise a day, aerobic exercise, it could be whatever you most enjoy too: swimming, walking, an exercise bike, but imagine just ten minutes a day. If you could take the time out, it’s enough to sort of ensure our success physically for many, many years to come,” said Hashmi.
Hashmi said staying active can help in the future with a person’s ability to walk, get out of a chair, their balance and overall agility.
He also suggests adding some light weights to your exercise routine. This can help with bone and muscle strength.
Keeping your mind sharp is important too.
Hashmi said one way to build new connections in the brain, which is important for cognition, is to learn something new.
For example, you could try learning a new language or musical instrument.
Playing cards, doing puzzles or crosswords are also good options.
Another tip, make sure there’s plenty of protein your diet.
“Protein in the diet is important for our bodies and our minds. It can be any source of protein, but a healthy source of protein,” he noted. “So, if you’re going to do meat, then white meat, chicken, turkey. If you’re going to do vegetarian sources of protein, there’s a lot of variety: legumes, lentils, tofu. And then also ensuring there are a lot of antioxidants in what we eat.”
Last but not least, pay attention to your emotional health.
Hashmi said socializing with family and friends can boost your mood.
Same with joining group activities or spending time outdoors.