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always keep things in perspective – try to accept and adapt to the things you cannot control. 4. MAINTAIN YOUR BRAIN One in eight older adults (aged 65+) in the United States has Alzheimer's disease, and some cognitive decline is a normal part of aging. Studies have shown that a lifestyle that includes cognitive stimulation through active learning slows cognitive decline. TIPS: Never stop learning and challenging your mind! Take dance lessons, learn a new language, attend lectures at your health food store, learn to play a musical instrument, or read a book. 5. GET ENOUGH SLEEP Humans can go longer without food than without sleep. Older adults need just as much sleep as younger adults – seven to nine hours per night – but oen get much less. Lack of sleep can cause depression, irritability, increased fall risk, and memory problems. TIPS: Develop a regular schedule with a bedtime routine. Keep your bedroom dark and noise-free— avoid watching television or surfing the Internet before bedtime. Stay away from caffeine late in the day. 6. CULTIVATE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS Twenty-eight percent of older adults live alone, and living alone is the strongest risk factor for loneliness. Common life changes in older adulthood, such as retirement, health issues, or the loss of a spouse, may lead to social isolation. TIPS: Maintain communication with your family and friends, especially aer a significant loss or life change. Schedule regular time to meet with friends and family – over coffee, during a weekly-shared meal, or around a common interest. Reach out to friends who might be isolated or feel lonely. 7. PRACTICE PREVENTION Many accidents, illnesses, and common geriatric health care conditions, such as falls, chronic illness, depression, and frailty, are preventable. TIPS: To prevent illness, take an immune support supplement and wash your hands aer using the restroom and before handling food. To prevent a fall, complete a home safety checklist, use assistive devices, wear appropriate footwear, get your vision checked, take vitamin D (get your blood levels checked) and a food-derived calcium, and get some form of exercises into your routine. 8. MAKE COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Older adults who engage in meaningful community activities like volunteer work report feeling healthier and less depressed. TIPS: Join a planning committee, volunteer, take a trip with friends, play cards at your local senior center, or join a book club. Remember that participating in activities should be fun, not stressful! 9. TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH Most of our health is not controlled by the health care system but by our own actions, our environment, our genes, and social factors. In addition, physicians are not perfect; medical errors do happen. e more patients participate in their own health care, the more satisfied they tend to be with the care they receive. TIPS: ink about the ways that your health can improve by changing your lifestyle, and make those changes. You are your own best advocate. Contact your primary care practitioner for an annual physical or whenever you have a concern about your health, and go to those appointments prepared. Bring a list of your current prescription and non-prescription medications, including herbal supplements; keep a list of your health concerns; and, most importantly, ask questions! Abby's Magazine - Volume 4 Issue 4 | Page 43