As women enter retirement, it is important to prioritize health in order to maintain an acceptable quality of life during the golden years. Failure to do so can result in suffering health issues unnecessarily during retirement. Here are some tips to maintain retirement health for women.
Stay active
Regular physical activity can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Women should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling are great options.
Eat a balanced diet
A balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide the necessary nutrients for optimal health. Women should aim to limit their intake of processed and high-fat foods, as well as sugary drinks.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Adults should aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Women should establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote restful sleep.
Stay connected
Social connections are important for mental and emotional well-being. Women should prioritize staying connected with friends and family members, as well as joining social groups and clubs that align with their interests. This can help women ward off feelings of not having purpose and depression.
Manage stress
Chronic stress can lead to negative health outcomes, including high blood pressure and heart disease. Women should find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing mindfulness meditation, engaging in hobbies, or seeking therapy. Regular exercise is also a great way to mitigate stress.
Preventative health
Preventative health screenings can detect health issues early when they are more treatable. Women should discuss with their healthcare provider which screenings are recommended for their age and health status, such as mammograms and bone density tests. Also, women should stay up to date on vaccinations and seek regular dental and vision checkups. They should also be aware of their medications and any potential interactions or side effects.
Protect skin
As women age, their skin becomes thinner and more fragile. It is important to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This can help prevent sunburns and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Stay mentally active
Mental stimulation can help maintain cognitive function and prevent age-related memory loss. Women should engage in activities that challenge their minds, such as crossword puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill.
Retirement financial planning
Along with physical and mental health, women should also be sure that their finances are in good shape during their retirement years. However, in order to ensure you can financially support your desired quality of life during your golden years you will need to follow a comprehensive retirement financial plan. This will include a plan for building up your savings, investments, and risk management.
Independent Financial Services has extensive experience in helping women successfully develop a financial plan that prepares them to fully enjoy their golden years. Contact us now to get started in planning for your retirement.