HEALTHY AGING

Balanced nutrition and regular physical activity are important for good health at any age.

Healthy and active aging is closely linked to a lifestyle that includes regular physical activity paired with wise food choices. The right intake of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fibres and protein are essential for normal body functions, from maintaining muscle to promoting healthy digestion. To have a balanced diet:

  • Choose a variety of nutritious foods
  • Avoid empty calories from foods such as chips, cookies, soda, and alcohol, which are rich in calories but low on nutrients
  • Pick foods that are low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol from animal sources

Source: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/nutritionforseniors.html

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Did you know that the World Health Organization recommends a fiber intake of at least 25 grams per day?


Source: World Health Organization. Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases. Report of a Joint WHO/FAO Expert Cosultation in WHO Technical Report Series (Geneva, 2003).

Most older people don’t need a complete multivitamin supplement, but if you don’t think you are making the best food choices, talk to your doctor about the potential benefits of a multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.


Source:http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/whats-your-plate/vitamins-minerals

<h2>Take care of yourself!</h2>

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!

Keep yourself feeling young by doing things that are good for you! Make sure to eat breakfast every day, eat high-fibre foods, such as whole-grain breads and cereals, beans, fruits, and vegetables, and drink plenty of water. Ask your doctor about how to safely increase your physical activity by taking regular short walks, and remember to stay connected with your family, friends, and community.

<h2>Get moving – it’s easier than you think!</h2>

GET MOVING – IT’S EASIER THAN YOU THINK!

Signs that we commonly associate with old age, such as loss of strength and balance, can be due to inactivity. Exercise may help improve your independence and reduce your chances of a fall by building strength, balance, and agility. Talk to your doctor to see which exercises may be appropriate for you.

<h2>Caregivers: Help your loved one eat right</h2>

CAREGIVERS: HELP YOUR LOVED ONE EAT RIGHT

Eating well is important to healthy aging. Make sure your loved one is eating a variety of nutritious foods and getting enough protein, which is commonly found in meat and seafood, legumes, eggs, and nuts. Honour your loved one’s food preferences, and stay connected by shopping for and planning meals together and making meal times social.