Strengthening Your Immune System

How Can Seniors Improve their Immune SystemStrengthening Your Immune System

 

In the later years, your immune system tends to become weaker, increasing your chances of catching infections and diseases. Whether you live on your own or in a retirement community, it helps to take care of yourself. Let’s explore the ways in which you can strengthen your immune system by focusing on the habits and lifestyle choices that can enhance your physical and mental health.

Easy Tips for Seniors to Improve Immunity

Listed below are a few immune-boosting strategies that have long-term benefits:

  1. Eat Well
    With age, our appetite also tends to wane. However, it is essential to consume a balanced diet to enhance the functionality of the internal systems. It’s crucial to have the right combination of vitamins, food groups, and minerals. Spinach, garlic, broccoli, and yogurt are some common immune boosting foods for seniors. It also helps to eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and plant-based fats to lay a healthy foundation.
  2. Get Plenty of Sleep
    Fatigue can increase the chances of illness, which is why sleep is essential for the body to recover and regenerate, especially in your senior years. It helps to get 7 to 8 hours of peaceful sleep a night. If needed, you could also include an afternoon nap in your everyday routine.
  3. Exercise Regularly
    Staying active in your senior years helps keep your mind fresh and your body healthy. You can include some light exercise as a part of your routine to ensure your body remains functioning properly. It also helps to spend some time in the sun, so your body gets enough vitamin D. You could also practice some yoga every day.
  4. Stay Hydrated
    In addition to following a healthy diet, you should make sure to drink enough water every day. It helps with digestion and supports the immune system, allowing it to function better. The general rule of thumb for seniors is to drink at least eight glasses of water in a day.
  5. Avoid Stress and Relax
    It is significant to avoid stress because it increases the likelihood of illnesses. In addition to this, depression and chronic stress can weaken your immune system. It helps to socialize and stay active to avoid feelings of isolation. Spending time with your loved ones, developing hobbies, and meditation can also help reduce stress.
  6. Hygiene
    As we get older, it is vital to stay clean and hygienic to avoid infections and diseases. Adopt healthy habits such as washing your hands before and after eating, brushing your teeth regularly, and bathing regularly. It also helps to reduce your exposure to smoke and environments with poor air quality.
  7. Preventive Medicine
    It is important to visit your doctor regularly, at least once every six months, for a complete checkup. Also, follow their instructions carefully and take any medicine properly to avoid any health complications.

We Have Excellent Senior Communities & Retirement Homes

At The Holiday Retirement, we care about providing a healthy and friendly atmosphere for our residents. We have top-rated retirement homes and spacious apartments for seniors with amenities such as heating and air conditioning, delicious and healthy meals, daily housekeeping and laundry services. Our friendly and efficient staff are available to offer any assistance.

For more information about our retirement homes and senior community, please call us at 860-233-8208. You could also fill out our online form to book a tour of our facility.