At any stage of life, it is important to keep healthy and happy. Drinking water, eating well, regular exercise and getting plenty of rest is usually the key to sustaining the best possible lifestyle. This becomes more apparent as we age. Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa highlights ten ways to help you retire healthily.
Reduce stress to reduce the possible risk of Alzheimer’s
In the UK, one in 14 people over the age of 65 are estimated to be at risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown those affected by chronic stress in mid-life are more likely to develop the illness, due to the degenerative effect stress has on the brain. It is believed to be a result of increased inflammatory processes. During retirement, have a financial plan to help stop money troubles and reduce stress. Budgeting for essentials and being careful with luxury and lifestyle purchases can ease the transition from working to retiring.
Reduce your risk of retiring with Diabetes
It is estimated that five million people in the UK have diabetes, 85% of whom are recognised as obese. Start today by controlling what you eat and drink. There are hidden calories in sugary drinks and cutting down on alcohol reduces your chances of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Five-a-day
Get your five-a-day fruit and vegetables to limit the impact dementia has.
Quit smoking to prevent having a stroke
It has been found that smoking single-handedly doubles your chances of having a stoke – 52% of those affected by stroke in the UK last year were active smokers. A happy retirement is a healthy one; consider quitting smoking to stop the thickening of blood and clogging of arteries. Speak to your GP for the safest way to quit.
Safeguard your home to limit accidents
As we age, we tend to spend more time at home. Keep yourself safe from falls by maintaining flooring like worn carpet, avoiding leaving items in entrances, hallways or on the stairs, and if needed consider fitting support bars in bathrooms.
Manage your weight to slim down the chance of developing cardiovascular disease
Heart failure is a common cause of death across Europe (and leads to irregular heart rhythms and heart attacks) and excess weight is a major risk factor, as the heart has to work harder. As we age, fewer calories are needed so try to cut back on foods high in saturated fats or sugars.
See exercise as fun. Being physically active cuts your chances of cardiac arrest
Cardiac arrest happens when your heart stops pumping blood around the body. Try making exercise something you look forward to rather than a chore. Working out with a friend or with your favourite music can help motivate.
Tackle loneliness and social isolation
Addressing the problem of isolation can be a big step towards a happy retirement. If you fear losing friends and lack social interaction – actively keep in touch with loved ones. Join local groups such as coffee mornings, voluntary work or even dance lessons!
Learn a new skill to slow memory loss
Retiring brings the blessing of more free time so now could be the time to learn a new skill like cooking, starting a DIY project or learning how to play an instrument. Keeping your brain busy can help maintain and even improve memory.
Include loved ones in your retirement plan
Be it your partner’s children, friends or family members – it is important to keep close ones in the loop. Set a retirement plan as a household, rather than an individual.
For further information, visit Your Doctor
Last modified: June 10, 2021
