Much like you plan for retirement, you should be planning for your golden years when it comes to your health as well. Once our bodies reach middle age, the decisions we make at that point can have far-reaching consequences when it comes to quality of life into our 80s and beyond.
Richmond Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at four things that experts say you should no longer do once you cross the age-50 threshold.
- Skip Routine Health Exams and Screenings
The late 40s and early 50s are when routine screenings begin for many different types of cancers, and they start even earlier for breast cancer. The 50s are also when things like high cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure start to become concerning issues.
- Skip Out on Good Sleep
Not getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep on a regular basis is linked to obesity, memory issues, depression, and cardiovascular disease. When you’re younger, your body can fight through less sleep, but now is the time that these issues will start to catch up with you.
- Not Doing Strength Training
You may think cardio is the key to weight loss, but toning those muscles also keeps your metabolism working well. In addition, building and maintaining muscle mass fights off natural bone loss, as the body begins to lose around 1% of bone density per year starting around age 40.
- Keep Putting Off the Dentist
Face it: no one likes going to the dentist, but it’s a necessary evil, especially as we get older. Unchecked gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has been connected to other conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
To learn more about Holliswood Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://holliswood-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.
