One of the worst side effects of aging is the loss of vibrant and explosive energy. So it pretty envies to see the youth enjoy such energy levels. But did you know that although seniors can’t keep up with their grandchildren’s energy levels, they can increase theirs? Today, we’ll share with you seven secrets to high energy levels for seniors.
These secrets will help seniors develop and maintain vibrant and explosive energy levels.
Sticking with the Basics
The truth of the matter is, the secrets we’ll reveal here are not secrets at all. Instead, they are common health maintenance tips. But what we’ll share is specifically chosen to help seniors maintain youthful vigor and energy.
1. Focus on Nutrition
The human body functions like a well-oiled machine. If it is well-maintained, that is. And just like all devices need a source of power, the human body does too. Our primary source of energy is food. The food we eat is our fuel.
If we eat the right kinds of food, we are healthier and more active. But, on the other hand, putting in the wrong type of fuel affects the amount of energy we have.
For example, the body’s primary energy source is carbohydrates that provide the most calories (except for fat). Thus, a calorie is the unit of measurement for dietary energy.
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, our daily diet should consist of 45 to 65 percent of carbs. Natural foods rich in carbs are whole grains (whole wheat bread, barley, and oatmeal) and legumes (beans and peas). Starchy veggies like sweet potatoes are also rich in carbs. But they are less nutritious.
Even though carbs are the highest source of energy, too much of it isn’t good. If you will not lose those carbs within the body through physical activity, it turns to fat.
Other sources of energy include protein and fat. Protein helps in repairing the body and the development of lean muscle. Fat gives the most calories, but it increases the risk of heart diseases. Unsaturated and unsalted fat is best.
Keeping a healthy diet is challenging, not just for seniors, for everyone! You have to plan your meals, shop for the ingredients, and prepare them! Fortunately for the seniors in the Orange County, California, area, Infinite Love Homecare can assist them with these. We offer meal preparation and grocery shopping services.
2. Plenty of Water
Dehydration is harder to detect among seniors. It causes plenty of health problems that seniors can’t afford to experience. It damages all kinds of bodily systems. Plus, the lack of water saps seniors of energy and slows their metabolism.
Although the suggested amount of water we should drink is 8-10 glasses daily, seniors should also eat rich water content.
3. Regular Exercise
“Exercise! But I’m tired. Exercise is the last thing I need!” That might make sense, but it doesn’t, according to basic biology. By regularly exercising, we push the limits of the body. It’s a long-term solution that allows the body to do so much more.
Through exercise, we’re training our muscles to get used to more exertion. We’re training our lungs and heart to last longer in strenuous activities. As an additional benefit, exercise also prevents all sorts of diseases in the long run.
We understand that regular exercise may be challenging for some seniors. But guess what? We can help you with that. Contact Infinite Love Homecare today and let us know how we can help you.
4. Cleanliness
It may be hard to believe, but cleanliness affects our energy levels. Researchers have found that people with clean homes are healthier than people living in a mess. Conversely, research shows that people living in a cluttered environment are fatigued more often and are more vulnerable to depression—otherwise, people who clean their sheets and make their beds experience better sleep in general.
It is also scientifically proven that a messy environment is associated with being stressed. A messy environment releases cortisol, the stress hormone, studies found.
5. Sunshine and Fresh Air
With the other “secrets” on this list, you’re getting and replenishing energy. But with this tip, you’re bringing vibrancy! Sunshine is known to trigger the release of serotonin in the body. Serotonin is considered a feel-good hormone. It boosts the mood, helps maintain focus, and ensures we remain calm.
And just like cleanliness, a good amount of sunshine also helps in regular sleep. We have an entire post discussing sunshine, and it has to do with the body’s circadian rhythm. So please go check it out!
Fresh air gives more oxygen. Oxygen is vital for brain and muscular function. Getting more of it is refreshing and charges the cells with vigor.
6. Sleep and Rest
This one’s a no-brainer. But there’s more to sleep and rest than meets the eye. During sleep, the body performs TONS of reparations and maintenance. After a day of vigorous activity, sleep repairs and improves the body. It makes sure that the next time such vigorous exercise partakes, the body has more energy to complete the task.
Of course, the body needs resources to do the repairs and improvements. Food, water, sunshine, and fresh air provide those resources. See just how incredible the human body is?
However, it’s not just any kind of sleep that does that. It’s complete and regular sleep. Two hours of sleep every night will not do. If you need to know how to develop a better sleeping habit as a senior, see this post!
7. Positive Mental Attitude
Did you know that a positive mental attitude can also increase your energy levels? Positive thinking and smiling release endorphins, a happy hormone. Research shows that a positive mindset increases energy by 180%! Who wouldn’t want that?
Reach Out to Infinite Love Homecare for All Your Senior Needs
Whatever you need, we are here for you. Call us at (949) 529-4130 or send us a message through our Contact Us page. If you need details on what our services are, see our Services webpage. We also offer free consultations to help you get the best healthcare services right in the comfort of your own home.
