12 Unhealthy Habits Most Retirees Are Guilty Of And How To Change Them
Most people live for retirement, but once it comes, they seem unprepared, and instead of enjoying their time off, they turn to unhealthy habits. Some continue with the unhealthy lifestyle they practiced in their younger years without realizing that their bodies are changing and they need to make better choices. Here are prime examples of which habits retirees need to stop now.
Social isolation
Most of our daily interactions happen with coworkers, regardless of whether we like them or not. Now that you are retired, you might struggle to find social connections because you likely forgot how to make new friends outside some social construction, like working in an office. By volunteering and joining community clubs for seniors, you can break that cycle and avoid the pitfalls of living a lonely life.
Sleeping disruption
As we age, we are more likely to experience insomnia and various other sleeping disturbances. With retirement, you don’t have daily tasks, so you might feel there is no need for structure. However, your age demands sleeping patterns that will energize you and benefit your overall health. Sleep hygiene should always be a priority, even more so once you are over 60.
Sedentary living
Thanks to their jobs, most people already spend a significant part of their days sitting. But physical movement is vital for our physical and mental health, and as a retiree, you have all the time to explore various doctor-approved activities. Yet, a number of those over 60 feel they earned the right to turn into couch potatoes, which increases your risk of chronic health problems.
Inadequate diet
With age, food restrictions are inevitable if you want to live a happier and healthier life. Generally, seniors need fewer calories and foods high in sugar, salt, and bad fats. Many doctors recommend a Mediterranean diet with lean proteins, fresh veggies, cheeses, and olive oil. A proper diet with physical activity can significantly change your overall health.
Alcohol intake
First, alcohol affects you differently when you are 30 compared to your 60s. Second, many older adults take medications for chronic issues, and mixing medicines with alcohol increases the risks of falls, for example, but it could also be a deadly combination. Yet, many retirees turn to alcohol to hide the lack of purpose they feel now that they are no longer in the workforce. This copying mechanism is never healthy but can be more dangerous with age.
Avoiding check-ups
Many seniors avoid annual check-ups and preventive screenings, which can create many medical problems. Some do it out of fear, while others feel good, so they don’t think there’s anything to check. However, many tests, like colonoscopy, mammograms, prostate exams, and blood tests, are necessary to catch certain illnesses on time.
Ignoring brain health
Keeping your brain busy can help you stay sharper longer. Yet many people forget that we need to train our minds just like we train our bodies. This can be anything from learning new skills to playing chess or memory games. Combined with physical activity and proper nutrition, you are giving yourself a chance for longevity and more joyful twilight years.
Not addressing mental health issues
Older adults are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, and the CDC calculated that 20% of those 55 and older experience mental health concerns. Yet, many fail to discuss them with professionals despite the risks of other health-related issues like hypertension or heart problems. Apart from talking to their doctors and loved ones, retirees need to focus on their mental health needs, which can be done through mindfulness exercises or spirituality and spending more time in nature.
Feeling useless
Retirement is a big deal, and it has excellent benefits and many downsides. For many, the lack of purpose is a troubling issue that consumes their everyday life. Talking to friends, getting into activities with your friends and on your own, spending time with family, traveling, and engaging in community issues can significantly show your wisdom, experience, and maturity. That will bring your sense of purpose and even make you more in tune with your needs because you don’t have work to be part of your identity.
Spending too much
Some retirees will become anxious about their finances, so they will begin living a frugal lifestyle. In contrast, others will start overspending, and neither is a great choice. Many retirees want something to do, so instead of going to work, they go to malls or spend hours online ordering things they likely don’t need. It is a way to pass time that will cause more financial stress sooner rather than later. There are healthier ways to make the most of your day, and these usually include doing things that bring you joy, like playing a musical instrument, going for a walk, or chatting with your friends.
Smoking
While smoking is never a good choice, those who smoked for decades are even less likely to try quitting. Many retirees believe there’s no point in stopping now, but that’s the case. Whenever you decide, your body will be grateful because it will increase the chances of a stroke, heart disease, or lung cancer. It won’t be easy, but you should talk to your doctor about alternatives to make it manageable.
Resisting change
Many seniors resist change because of fear or denial, but change is inevitable. Usually, older adults fear losing their physical abilities or mental understanding, which might be the truth, but accepting new reality will shine a new light on one’s life. Opening yourself to new experiences, hobbies, and friendships can be exciting, making retirement much easier.
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