It's wise to contribute a healthy amount to a retirement nest egg, such as an individual retirement account (IRA), but don't forget to invest in your health. As people live longer and health care costs rise, it's more important than ever to keep your health on track for your golden years.
Be Physically Active
Think of physical activity as free
health insurance against disease and/or
disability. You don't have to do anything
strenuous. Aim for at least 30 minutes a
day of moderate activity, such as brisk
walking. If you aren't active, take it easy
and check with your doctor first.
Choose activities you like and incorporate them into your daily life. If you don't like the gym, try lifting weights while watching television. Muscle mass decreases as you age, so it's important to do strength training to maintain strength and balance.
Eat Well
Healthy foods can help keep you
strong, maintain a healthy weight and
prevent health problems such as heart
disease and osteoporosis.
Choose nutrient-dense foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains that are low-fat. And watch out for portion distortion – your calorie needs generally decrease as you get older.
Get Your Checkups
Regular checkups and screenings,
including blood pressure, cholesterol,
glucose and cancer screenings, are
important for finding health problems
before you have symptoms. Early
detection increases your chances of
successful treatment.
Talk to your doctor about which tests and vaccines you need. Keep a record of tests you've had and the results. Mark the dates you need to get tested again on your calendar.
Keep Mentally and
Emotionally Fit
Depression, stress and anxiety can
affect your health. Talk with your
doctor if you have mental health
concerns to determine the best
treatment options for you.
Manage stress. Everyone experiences stress at one time or another, but chronic, long-term stress can make you sick, both mentally and physically. Learn to say "no" and set limits. Prioritize and set time aside for what's most important to you and your family.
Engage your brain. Help stave off memory loss and keep your mind active by challenging your brain. Try crossword puzzles and word games. Go to community lectures or read challenging books. Find social and physical activities you enjoy, such as volunteering, walking programs or getting together with friends.
Get help as a caregiver. When you're busy taking care of a loved one such as an aging parent, it's important to recognize how caregiving may affect your own health. Seek help for depression or stress. Join a caregiver support group. And take care of yourself. Visit your doctor regularly, eat healthy, exercise, practice relaxation techniques and take time off – even just an hour.
The bottom line: Stay healthy so you'll be wealthy and wise in retirement – spending less on health care and more on the fun stuff!
This publication does not constitute legal, accounting or other professional advice. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither the publisher nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this material. Images may be from one or more of these sources: ©Jupiterimages, ©Getty Images, ©iStock, ©PhotoSpin.