Healthy aging means caring for body, mind and spirit as we grow older. It requires being mindful of our physical, mental and spiritual needs – and taking steps to address them.
Four important practices that support healthy aging are staying current with immunizations, preventing falls, maintaining good sleep habits and staying socially connected.
Immunizations
As we age, our immune systems change and sometimes become weaker, which can make it harder to fight infections. Older adults can be more vulnerable not only to illnesses such as flu, RSV and pneumonia, but also to serious complications that can result in hospitalization or worse. Those living with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure are at higher risk of complications.
Visit your primary care provider for guidance when it comes to determining which vaccines are right for you.
Good Catholic resources regarding the Church’s teaching on vaccines and the common good can be found in Pope Paul VI’s “Gaudium et Spes” and “The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church.”
Fall Prevention
Falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related death in adults 65 and older. Risk factors include decreased strength or balance, inactivity, certain medications or alcohol use, poor nutrition, vision problems, fear of falling or hazards at home.
To reduce the risk of falling, schedule regular checkups with your provider and eat a healthy diet. Also helpful: intervals or daily movement and strength and balance exercises.
Sleep
Adults need seven to nine hours of sleep nightly, but aging can affect sleep quality. Poor sleep may increase irritability, memory issues, depression and even risk of falls. Healthy sleep habits include:
• Keep a regular bedtime routine.
• Avoid screens before bed.
• Limit late naps.
• Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol.
Social Connections
Staying socially engaged supports mental health, strengthens language and memory, and reduces the risk of isolation – a growing public health concern among older adults. Risk factors for isolation include retirement or relocation, limited mobility, loss of a spouse and caregiving responsibilities.
There are ways to stay connected, however, such as calling or visiting family and friends on a daily basis. You can also send a card, volunteer or take a class to learn something new.
VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services has many ways to assist older adults. From finding local senior groups to receiving a joy-filled phone call, you don’t have to walk alone. Call 856-583-6123 or visit vitality.camdendiocese.org.
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