How to Maintain Good Health as You Age

on October 27, 2011
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Get health screenings

Have regular cancer, vision and depression screenings and blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and bone density checks. Knowing the results of these tests allows you to make early, needed lifestyle changes or receive treatment to prevent debilitating stroke, heart attack, osteoporosis, diabetes and depression.

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Watch your weight

Being overweight increases the risk for hypertension, diabetes and heart disease.

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Exercise your mind

Doing puzzles, taking classes, teaching others, reading and writing, talking about current events and playing cards stimulate the mind and memory.

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Maintain a support network

Interaction with others is important for a healthful, meaningful life, whether its family, as a volunteer, in your neighborhood, at church or on the job.

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Limit alcohol consumption

Abusing alcohol can contribute to liver damage, heart attack and debilitating injuries caused by falls.

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Eat well

Building your meals around lean meat and low-fat dairy products, vegetables, fruits and whole grains fuels a healthy body.

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Stay fit

Being physically active several times a week lifts the spirits and keeps the body resilient.

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Quit smoking

Tobacco contributes to heart and lung diseases, cancer, stroke and hypertension.