Later living expert from Lottie, Will Donnelly, create a checklist for taking care of your health as you get older. Protect your wellbeing by following these tips.
1. Stay connected to support networks
Staying connected is an important wellbeing factor later in life — socialisation can boost your self- esteem and keep you engaged with your community.
As you age it’s important to continue to enjoy your hobbies and interests. Finding a new passion later in life such as learning a new skill can also help you to stay connected to others, form new friendships and reduce any feelings of loneliness or social isolation.
2. Access healthcare
Staying connected is an important wellbeing factor later in life — socialisation can boost your self- esteem and keep you engaged with your community.
As you age it’s important to continue to enjoy your hobbies and interests. Finding a new passion later in life such as learning a new skill can also help you to stay connected to others, form new friendships and reduce any feelings of loneliness or social isolation.
3. Get outdoors
Staying active is an important part of ageing well. As we age our muscle mass, bone strength and overall balance decreases — however physical activity promotes good balance and strength.
Getting outdoors is a great way to stay active and well — for example from a gentle walk to gardening. With lots of countryside and open spaces to explore in Scotland there’s plenty of opportunities to explore your local area.
4. Create a daily routine
A daily structure can boost your wellbeing later in life and help you to stay connected to others. For example, scheduling time for a daily walk, catching up with loved ones and activities with friends.
At first you may find it slightly overwhelming knowing how to spend your free time later in life — especially if you’ve spent many years working, bringing up a family, or taking care of loved ones. Your golden years offer you the opportunity to spend your free time doing the things you enjoy.
5. Eat well
Eating a healthy and balanced diet is key to good wellbeing. Try to eat 3 regular meals a day and a diet full of foods rich in vitamin D, such as oily fish, red meat, and fortified foods (fat spreads and breakfast cereals).
Find out the 7 best locations for later living in Scotland.
Jacqueline Munro I am the Digital Content Editor at "The People's Friend", looking after our website, social media channels and podcast.
