Health Ageing

Good nutrition, exercise and some regular medical checks.

What should I be doing to keep myself healthy and fit?

Before embarking on a new fitness programme, you should see your doctor for a medical check-up, especially if you are obese and/or haven’t exercised in a long time, or suffer from a chronic medical condition.

About 30 minutes of physical activity, such as housework, walking and gardening, is recommended every day.  Other exercises are noted below:-

Walking is an excellent form of exercise for Senior Citizens because it is low impact, free and high in health benefits. 

Prepare for a walk by warming up, wearing the correct clothing and shoes, and make sure you are well hydrated.  Remember to warm down after a walk.

Swimming helps develop muscle strength but can cause neck problems.  Another form of swimming – Aquaerobics - may be better because the exercises are done standing in the water.

Keep fit/Aerobics is another way of keeping fit – but do make sure the class teacher is qualified to teach older people.

Healthy Eating Tips

Healthy eating is not difficult and the benefits are well worth the effort

• A wide variety of nutritious foods
• Plenty of bread and cereals (particularly wholegrain), vegetables and fruit
• Fish and meat (or pulses if you are a vegetarian)
• Low salt foods, and use salt sparingly
• Small amounts of food which contain added sugars

• Calcium is important for women

• Iron is important for women and vegetarians

• Drink alcohol in moderation

For more information regarding exercises and healthy eating, click on the following:-

www.direct.gov.uk/LeisureandRecreation

www.helptheaged.org.uk/Health/HealthyAgeing