Due to the risks of the novel coronavirus pandemic, most seniors are homebound to protect themselves from illness. Unfortunately, this abrupt change might have affected your wellness routine, preventing you from exercising or doing your usual healthy activities.
Just because you’re stuck at home doesn’t mean you can’t partake in a healthy lifestyle, though! There are lots of things you can do from the comfort of your home to maintain your physical and emotional health. Here are a few tips.
Eat Well
A healthy lifestyle starts with a healthy diet. At home, it’s tempting to reach for snacks or skip meals altogether. Resist these urges and make sure you’re eating multiple balanced meals per day to fuel your body with nutrients that will keep you strong and healthy.
Seniors should focus on eating lots of high-fiber fruits, leafy green vegetables, fish and whole grains. Stay away from red meat, excess fats, sugars and salts and processed foods.
Being at home also gives you the opportunity to experiment with your meals! Play around with recipes and healthy ingredients to find a new favorite dish. You can even plan meals ahead of time to ensure you’re set for the upcoming week.
And, of course, make sure you’re staying hydrated by drinking lots of water and staying away from alcohol and sugary drinks.
Get Moving
With gyms and fitness classes on hold, you might be missing your usual workout routine. However, you can still find ways to be active at home!
If you’d normally take part in a fitness or yoga class, look for online alternatives you can do right in your living room. Many instructors have classes available on YouTube or their websites that only require your body weight to complete.
If you aren’t able to partake in a fitness class at home, you should still aim to do approximately 30 minutes of activity each day. Do a walking lap around your home or venture outside for a walk around the block. Stand up while doing chores or perform light exercises like leg lifts while seated in a chair. You can even use everyday objects like laundry baskets as weights.
Relieve Stress
Stress does more than take a toll on your happiness. It is also linked with serious diseases like heart disease and diabetes. To protect your health, take steps to relieve everyday stress through productive outlets.
Find a new hobby you enjoy, such as reading or making art. Meditation—especially before bed—can help you relax and wind down for a night of peaceful sleep.
Additionally, do your best to stay connected with your loved ones. Video chat with friends and family or call them on the phone to catch up from a distance. Reaching out to your support system can go a long way in relieving stress and improving your mental wellbeing.
Make Sure You’re Covered
Preventative care is the best way to keep tabs on your health and stay well for years to come. Keep in touch with your physician if you’re due for testing, take medications or start to feel sick. Telemedicine has opened up many doors for seniors to receive medical care without having to come into the doctor’s office.
Of course, you also want to make sure you’re enrolled in a Medicare plan that covers all of your health needs. If you’re not sure if your Medicare plan provides you with all of the benefits you’re eligible for, SeniorCare Benefits is here to help. SeniorCare Benefits represents a range of Medicare plans and we’re here to support you with the healthcare coverage you need. Reach out to an agent today to learn more.
