Dr. Stephanie Hicks
GP
With people living longer, there is a desire to stay healthier and active. Knowing your numbers is an essential part of staying on top of your health and preventing more serious conditions.
Only 13% of over-55s proactively monitor their health and wellbeing and a quarter wait to see if a health issue gets better before taking action, according to new research by Bupa Health Clinics.
Older people want to stay healthier for longer
Nearly two-thirds of over-55s say they have noticed more aches and pains as they’ve got older and more than half report having lower energy levels than they are used to.
Almost half have experienced changes to their sleep quality and over a quarter say they take longer to recover after illness or exercise. As well as this, 40% say they are taking more medications and 45% find it harder to lose weight.
Be aware of what’s normal ageing and what isn’t
Dr Stephanie Hicks, GP at Bupa Health Clinics says: “As we age, our bodies naturally change, and it’s really important to take proactive steps in order to look after our health — to make sure we’re able to stay healthy and active for as long as possible, rather than things starting to get worse.”
How to stay healthy in retirement
Dr Hicks outlines her top tips for staying healthy in retirement. While many people think staying active is more, it’s important to add some strength training into your exercise regime as well.
Cardio workouts are brilliant for your health, but by adding strength training, you can help to prevent muscle loss and preserve mobility, then simple tasks such as carrying shopping will remain easy. It can also help prevent falls and fractures. Try adding exercises such as squats, lunges and sit-ups into your routine. Use small hand weights or resistance bands to build up that strength.
Look out for hidden signs like unexplained weight loss
If you lose weight but can’t pinpoint a reason for it, this can be a sign that something else could be wrong, as it means your body is using extra energy, and we don’t know why. This should always be looked into. Another quick sign to watch out for is bleeding from places where you shouldn’t be, such as your bottom or in your pee.
Strong social connections are really important for both mental and physical health.
Keep your brain active
People often worry that when they get older, their memory will get worse. While taking a bit longer to remember things is a natural part of ageing, there are things you can do to help keep your brain active and stimulated. This can include learning a new language, reading, doing a crossword or puzzle or learning a new skill such as playing an instrument.
Stay socially connected
Strong social connections are really important for both mental and physical health. Loneliness in people in later life can have a real impact on their lives. Getting out with family and friends, starting volunteering, hobbies or gym classes, volunteering or joining local groups can really help to maintain socialising in later life.
Get a health check
It’s valuable to know your numbers, such as your blood pressure reading or cholesterol levels. Once you know these, you’ll have a better understanding of how healthier you are. Health checks aren’t only about prevention; they can also pick up underlying conditions that may not have symptoms yet. Catching them early is especially important as you age.
For more information, please contact Bupa Press Office on [email protected] or call 020 7833 7040
