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It's National Wellness Month.
While being aware of our health and staying on top of our appointments is important year-round, August is the time of year we pay a little closer attention to things that keep us healthy.
August wants us to remind ourselves that self-care, managing stress, proper hydration, proper nutrition and building sustainable daily habits that improve physical and mental well-being is important and should not be ignored.
We are encouraged to look closely at how we are helping ourselves and those around us.
We also are reminded that we need to maintain an active lifestyle, which involves physical movement, emotional fulfillment and mental stimulation.
Common things we hear as we follow wellness journeys can become repetitive, but they are still important.
Remember, to increase or maintain a healthy lifestyle, it is important to drink plenty of water.
Typically, the recommended amount of fluids per day for seniors is 6 to 8 cups (48 to 64 ounces).
This might be different for some individuals due to weight or health conditions, but as a general guide it is helpful. Water is considered the best fluid for hydration.
It sounds simple enough, but keep in mind as we age we tend to have a reduced level of thirst and sometimes our medication may cause fluid loss so we need to be proactive.
The next thing we hear is to make sure we are getting the proper amount of fruit and vegetables each day.
Older adults are recommended to eat 1.4 to 2 cups of fruit and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables each day.
Fruit and vegetables are important because they combat malnutrition, help manage chronic diseases, and provide essential nutrients like fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C.
Physical movement is also important.
It preserves independence, lowers the risks from chronic diseases, strengthens our bones and muscle mass, and naturally boosts our mental well-being by reducing anxiety and cognitive decline.
When incorporating both aerobic and strength training activities, older adults could also see an increase in flexibility and an easement of joint pain.
On the opposite side of wellness, do not forget how important sleep is.
The older adult is expected to get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep supports memory recovery by helping the brain form long-term memories and clearing out the waste.
Sleep also is a mood booster and lowers the chance of feeling sad, anxious or irritable. It can also aid in building a stronger immunity by producing proteins to fight off colds and infections, and can help regulate blood pressure and manage blood sugars.
So, even though wellness is important year-round, take a moment and assess where you are on your wellness journey. Do you want to start, maintain or increase where you want to be?
Do you need to drink more water or eat more fruit and vegetables?
Or do you want to increase your physical mobility?
Remember, your health is important in letting you be the best version of you.
Mallory Wiand is the Wellness and HEAP coordinator at Direction Home of Eastern Ohio. Contact the office at 330-505-2300 for information regarding senior-based services and opportunities in the Mahoning Valley.