September is National Healthy Aging Month. This month-long observance raises awareness of the importance of physical and mental wellness for seniors and is the perfect opportunity for older adults to develop healthy habits.
Many factors impact our health as we age. While your genetics may be out of your control, others—such as physical activity and a healthy diet—are within your reach. Developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle promotes holistic well-being, ensuring you stay happy and healthy long after retirement.
Let’s dive deeper into the benefits of exercise, healthy eating, and stress management for older adults and how Homestead Village’s amenities support healthy lifestyles.
Top Benefits of Exercise, Healthy Eating, and Stress Management for Older Adults
Do you feel as fit and fabulous as you did when you were 30? How about 50? While you might still feel great, maintaining a healthy lifestyle will make you feel even better. The smallest changes have huge impacts on your health and well-being.
Starting with eating healthily. This is one of the best things older adults can do for themselves. According to the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, you should eat a diet rich in fruits, veggies, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains.
Proper nutrition can help you maintain your health in many ways. For instance, diets high in calcium and potassium can lower your blood pressure. Calcium-rich foods can reduce your chance of osteoporosis, and heart-healthy meals can help prevent strokes and valve diseases. Our culinary partner, Unidine, provides an array of delectable, heart-healthy dishes and an immersive dining experience that residents, guests, and staff rave about.
Other valuable benefits of a healthy diet include:
- Promotes muscle and bone strength
- Enhances cognitive functioning (foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s)
- Improves energy levels
Additionally, exercise is a significant component of an older adult’s healthy lifestyle. Fitness for seniors benefits include improved balance and mobility, better cognitive function, and lower risks of chronic health conditions, such as obesity, arthritis, heart disease, and stroke. In fact, a study found that compared to adults ages 40 and older who take 4,000 daily steps, those who take 8,000+ steps per day lowered their risk of death by 51%.
But it’s not just your body that you should be nourishing. Your mental health is just as important. Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, dementia, and diabetes. Proper coping and stress management techniques can prevent stress and anxiety and improve your mental well-being.
Some stress management exercises to try include:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Slow breathing
- Tai chi
Want to reap these health benefits and more? Homestead Village’s active senior living fitness programs can help.
Explore Homestead Village’s Wellness Programs
At Homestead, we aim to help our residents reach their fitness goals. That’s why we offer a variety of senior-centric health and wellness programs for all ages and ability levels. Our on-campus fitness center has everything you need to feel your best, including:
- Indoor therapy pool
- Indoor walking track
- Whirlpool
- Two fitness centers
- Workout equipment
We also offer many fun fitness classes, including aquatic exercises, Gentle Body Yoga, cardio and aerobics, and Otago core strengthening and balance classes to help reduce your risk of falls.
Recovering from an injury? Homestead partners with Powerback Rehabilitation and provides physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to residents.
Want to work out from the comfort of your own home? No problem! We offer LES MILLS virtual fitness programs. Choose from an endless selection of classes, including cardio and strength training.
Hate gyms? Our gorgeous 90-acre campus features scenic walking paths, outdoor trails, and more. Enjoy some fresh air and the natural beauty of Lancaster County while you exercise.
Our staff will help design a fitness program personalized to your needs, goals, and ability levels. We’ll also help you build a healthy meal plan. Our dining menu accommodates all dietary preferences and restrictions.
Feel Your Best at Homestead
We have everything you need to live a happy, healthy life, including fitness classes, delicious and nutritious dining menus, and life-enrichment programs.
Want to learn more? Contact us today to book your tour.
