How to Increase Mobility for Seniors: Part 2

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A common problem we all face as we age is loss of mobility. This is unavoidable as our bodies naturally degenerate. Aging results in a decrease in muscle mass and strength, the density of our bones, and stiffer joints as our cartilage thickens over time. We don’t have control over what our bodies do naturally as they age. However, what we do have control over is how quickly our bodies age and how much.

 

In this blog post, Sansbury Medical Stairlifts of Staten Island, NY, offers up tips for maintaining your mobility for as long as possible, particularly diet and nutrition tips.

 

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING MOBILITY THROUGH DIET AND NUTRITION

 

In Part 1 of our mobility series, we discussed the importance of diet and nutrition on maintaining muscle mass, bone health, and joint health. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy diet and nutrition plan as you age:

 

  • Drink more water. Most of us live life in a partially-dehydrated state as it is. However, as you age, your sense of thirst lessons, resulting in being even more dehydrated. A good tip is to consume more water than you think you need. Unsweetened iced tea and iced coffee are good alternatives in the summer as well.
  • Plan your meals. If you’re used to cooking for a bunch of kids who now have fled the coop, you’ve probably gotten out of the habit of cooking once they left. This can lead to an increase in fast-food consumption and junk food. Plan out healthy, nutritious meals packed with macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats) to maintain optimal health and wellness.
  • Eat appropriate servings. Limit your indulgences (i.e. overeating at family gatherings) and learn to listen to your body and stop eating when you’re full. Enjoy your food.
  • Use herbs and spices. As you age, your sense of taste decreases as well. Food may start to taste blah and when food tastes blah, you tend to not eat. Spice up your food with more herbs and spices and avoid using table salt that can lead to high blood pressure.
  • Reduce sugar. Processed sugar amounts to little more than empty calories and a waste to your body. Choose whole, healthy foods instead with no processing. Fresh fruits and vegetables and meats are optimal choices.
  • Consider supplements. Even with a healthy, nutritious diet plan, odds are you are missing some essential vitamins and minerals in your diet. An over-the-counter vitamin, catering specifically to seniors is a great option.

 

Sansbury Medical Stairlifts in Staten Island is passionate about helping seniors stay in their homes longer by providing both curved and straight chairlifts as well as vertical stairlifts. For almost three decades, we have installed and maintained chairlifts, helping hundreds of clients gain access to all areas of their homes.

 

At Sansbury Medical Stairlifts, we understand the importance and the value of staying active and healthy in your senior years. You’ve most likely worked hard your entire life and now it’s time to enjoy it. Maintaining your diet and nutrition will improve all aspects of your health, wellness, and mobility. Contact us today!