As we get older, we’re sometimes faced with health challenges that are beyond our control. That’s rarely been more apparent than during the COVID-19 pandemic and its presented healthcare difficulties. But it’s also true that many health challenges in the later years can be self-inflicted, and making a few simple changes can improve the length and quality of our lives. Experts say pharmacists wear protective hygienic masks and make drug recommendations in modern pharmacies. hese are seven health habits to stop after age 60. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You Have “Long” COVID and May Not Even Know It.
As we age, careful use of over-the-counter medications becomes increasingly essential. Just because they’re available over the counter doesn’t mean they’re safe for everyone. Experts say some OTC medications can cause blood pressure, heart or stomach problems, and risky interactions with certain prescription medications. It’s a good idea to tell your doctor about all medicines you take and consult them before beginning anything new.
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Binge drinking among people over 60 is booming, particularly among women, and experts are worried. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 20 percent of people aged 60 to 64 and 11 percent over 65 report binge drinking, defined as more than five drinks for men, and four drinks for women, in about two hours.
Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of cancer and heart disease at any age. Still, it’s hazardous as we mature—older people are more sensitive to alcohol, leading to dangerous drug interactions or injury from accidents or falls. To stay healthy, drink moderately: One alcoholic beverage per day for women and two for men.
A mature woman with a sore throat is standing in the living room at home. When it comes to quitting tobacco, it is never too late. Experts say that even people who quit smoking between the ages of 65 and 69 can add one to four years to their lives. Conversely, continuing to smoke after 60 raises your risk of chronic health conditions that increasingly affect older people, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and cancer. Cigarette smoking is still the No. 1 preventable cause of death.
Senior man in eyeglasses looking in the distance out of window Studies have found that loneliness can have adverse health effects similar to smoking 15 cigarettes a day and may increase older adults’ risk of developing dementia by 50%. Do everything you can to stay socially connected: Socialize regularly with friends and loved ones, join activities or support groups, or volunteer. Studies have found that mentoring younger people are particularly beneficial for brain health.
Stressed senior woman at home
Accentuating the positive can have a tangible impact on health as you grow older, particularly on the brain. Research done at Yale University found that people who had positive self-perceptions about growing older lived 7.5 years longer and had lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease better than people with more negative views.
The COVID vaccine and booster are on everyone’s mind. Still, they’re essential for older people at greater risk of being hospitalized or dying from respiratory illnesses. Talk to your doctor about the other routine vaccinations recommended for over 60, including flu, pneumonia, whooping cough, and shingles. The CDC says adults should get an annual flu vaccine, especially those over 60. The CDC also recommends two pneumococcal pneumonia vaccines for people 65 and older and two doses of shingles vaccine for people over 50.
Experts say that exercising regularly can fight the adverse effects of aging—it improves muscle tone and mass, decreases bone loss, improves memory, increases metabolism, and improves sleep. Conversely, being sedentary raises your risk of a range of health conditions that can shorten your life: obesity, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and cardiovascular disease, to name a few.
The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity) each week. Some examples of moderate-intensity practice include brisk walking, dancing, or gardening; vigorous exercise includes running, swimming, hiking, or biking. And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.
