Old age is a precious stage of life, where the elderly can enjoy the fruits of a long life journey. However, in old age, physical and mental health is more important than ever.
To maintain an optimal quality of life, the elderly need to be involved in healthy activities according to their abilities and body conditions. These healthy activities will help improve physical health, maintain cognitive function, and provide a feeling of happiness and contentment in old age.
Healthy Lifestyle Suitable for the Elderly
It is true that as you get older, performing high-intensity physical activities becomes more difficult and can increase the risk of serious injury to bones and joints. However, the good news is that there are several activities and sports that are safe and with minimal risk of injury that are suitable for older people to do.
It must be clearly understood that sport is not an activity suitable only for young people. In fact, as you get older, it's important to stay physically active and stay fit through exercise.
Exercising in old age has proven benefits in maintaining endurance, increasing strength, slowing the development of dementia, and reducing the risk of developing various chronic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, stroke and heart disease. Here are some recommendations for sports and activities that are safe and suitable for the elderly to keep their bodies fit in their golden age.
1. Walk
Walking is an easy and useful physical activity for the elderly. Walking regularly can help maintain heart health, improve blood circulation, and increase body flexibility.
Seniors can go for a walk in a park or a safe open area, or even take a walk around their neighborhood. Walking is a fun way to socialize and maintain quality of life.
2. Light Gymnastics or Stretching
Light exercise or stretching is another healthy activity that is especially suitable for the elderly. Gentle exercise helps increase body flexibility, strengthen muscles, and maintain balance.
This activity also helps reduce the risk of injury and muscle pain that is often experienced by the elderly. Look for gymnastic classes specifically for seniors at the gym or follow home exercise videos to get started.
3. Yoga
Yoga is a very beneficial exercise for the elderly. Yoga combines body movement with breathing techniques and meditation, helping to reduce stress and improve balance and flexibility. Yoga also allows seniors to reflect and find peace in their minds.
4. Gardening
Gardening is a fun and rewarding activity for the elderly. Caring for plants and getting outdoors can improve their physical health, such as improving strength and balance. Apart from that, gardening can also give them a feeling of peace and satisfaction when they see their plants grow and develop.
5. Playing with Grandchildren
Interaction with grandchildren is a very valuable healthy activity for the elderly. Playing with grandchildren not only increases emotional bonding, but also gives happiness. Playing games, reading story books, or talking to them is a great way to keep the spirit and happiness of the elderly.
6. Participate in Social Activities
Participating in social and community activities is another way to maintain the mental health of the elderly. Seniors can join art groups, reading clubs, or community charities. Social interaction with fellow community members will make them feel valued and acknowledged.
7. Mental Activity
Exercising the brain is also important for the health of the elderly. Playing puzzles, playing chess, or taking a mentally challenging class or seminar can help keep their cognition and memory sharp.
8. Maintain Healthy Eating Habits
A healthy lifestyle also includes a balanced and nutritious diet. Seniors should eat foods rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Make sure they drink enough water and avoid consuming foods high in salt, saturated fat or excess sugar.
9. Find a Fun Hobby
Finding a hobby to enjoy is a great way for seniors to keep their spirits up and their passions alive. Whether it's playing music, painting, knitting, or cooking, these hobbies can bring happiness and a sense of accomplishment.
10. Routine Visits to the Doctor and Medical Examination
Health is a top priority for the elderly. Make sure they attend regular health checks and follow the doctor's advice in maintaining their health.
The Importance of Insurance for the Elderly
Engaging in healthy activities will provide great benefits for the health and quality of life of the elderly. However, there are always unforeseen risks in old age, and the elderly need to have adequate financial protection to deal with them.
Retirement insurance policies or health insurance can be important tools to provide financial protection in their old age. An insurance policy is a written document that serves as evidence of an agreement between the insurance company (the insurer) and the customer who uses the insurance service (the insured), which contains an explanation of the rights and obligations of both parties involved in the agreement.
As the younger generation, we can help the elderly in planning their finances wisely. Help them understand the benefits and terms of an insurance policy that suits their needs. By having an insurance policy, the elderly can feel calmer and safer because there is financial protection that will help overcome various risks, such as the cost of medical care and comprehensive protection for all ages, including guarantees for old age.
All of these solutions are contained in the Solusi Abadi Plus program from BNI LIFE INSURANCE, a life insurance policy that offers protection for life or up to the age of 90, with a short premium payment period. This program also provides additional benefits in the form of premium returns for all premium payments that have been made.
