- Visiting physical activity establishments such as gyms, swimming pools, and senior centers can help maintain physical health.
- Regular visits to primary care physicians (PCPs) are necessary for preventive care.
- Pharmacies can provide advice on medications and immunization clinics, making it vital for people more prone to health complications.
- Dentist clinics should be visited regularly to detect oral cancer and treat dental issues.
As people age, taking care of their health becomes even more vital. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults aged 65 and over account for almost 20% of all deaths in the United States annually. Furthermore, those aged 85 and older are at a higher risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes than any other age group.
Getting older and older might scare you if you don’t take care of your health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will be vital when you attempt to age gracefully and avoid health complications. However, it might mean visiting specific facilities or establishments more and more as you grow old. Here are a few of such facilities that you should plan to visit more as you age:
Establishments for Physical Activities
Staying physically fit is essential for aging adults. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, improve balance and coordination, strengthen bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Establishments that offer physical activities are ideal for older adults. Here are some places to consider visiting more often:
Gyms
Regular visits to gyms can help you keep track of your exercise goals and maintain an optimal level of physical fitness. Look for gyms that offer special programs tailored specifically for seniors.
Swimming pools
Swimming is an excellent, low-impact exercise that increases flexibility while providing a full body workout. Be sure to check out local public swimming pools or private pool facilities.
Senior centers
Many senior centers offer classes and activities specifically designed for older adults. These may include chair yoga, tai chi, line dancing, or other gentle exercises.
Walking groups
Local walking groups are a great way to stay active while connecting with others in the community. Look into organized walking groups in your area or find friends who enjoy walking together regularly.
Of course, exercise can happen anywhere, even at home. Listening to your body and moving only as much as you are comfortable is vital.
Medical Establishments
As people age, it is essential to visit a primary care physician (PCP) more frequently. PCPs are trained to diagnose and treat various medical conditions, including chronic or long-term illnesses. Regular visits can help your PCP monitor any health changes with age. Additionally, they can provide preventive care to help you stay healthy and prevent serious illnesses from occurring in the future.
In addition to visiting a PCP regularly, older adults should also schedule screenings for common age-related conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Your doctor can advise on lifestyle changes you can make to reduce the risk of developing or managing these conditions effectively if they exist.
Finally, keep an eye out for signs of cognitive decline. This includes difficulty remembering names and dates, confusion, or difficulty following conversations. If you experience these symptoms, make an appointment with your PCP as soon as possible.
Pharmacies
Your pharmacist can be a valuable partner in maintaining health and wellness as you age. It is important to let them know about any medications that you are taking so they can ensure that the dosages are correct and there aren’t any interactions between different drugs. In addition, they can provide advice on which over-the-counter medications may be appropriate for your medical conditions.
Lastly, pharmacies often host immunization clinics offering vaccinations such as flu shots or pneumococcal pneumonia vaccines to protect against serious illnesses associated with aging.
Dentist Clinics
Dental health will be as essential as physical health as you age. Regular visits to the dentist can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, preventing more serious conditions such as periodontal disease or tooth decay from developing.
Another benefit of visiting the dentist regularly is that they can detect signs of oral cancer in its early stages. This is especially important for older adults at a higher risk of developing this type of cancer.
Visiting the nearby orthodontics specialist can also help you identify any other issues with your teeth or jaw and receive the necessary treatment.
Final Thoughts
Regular visits to various facilities such as medical centers, pharmacies, and dentist clinics are essential for maintaining health and wellness as you age. Keeping up with regular check-ups could potentially save your life in the long run! Be sure to consult your physician with any questions or concerns.
