Tips for healthy aging

Prof. Dr. Sevgi Aras listed the things to be followed in healthy aging. Prof. Dr. Aras said, “During the healthy aging process, care should be taken in all areas from oral health to hearing tests, from balanced nutrition to exercise.”

Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Specialist Prof. Dr. Sevgi Aras from Medipol Mega University Hospital listed the factors that support healthy aging on October 1, World Elderly Day. Prof. Dr. Aras said, “Attention should be paid to the healthy aging process from a young age, even from childhood. 'Successful aging' is the ability to sustain the aging process on one's own without being dependent on others, even in the presence of illness. 'Active aging' is the process in which the elderly person participates in social, working and production-related areas. The first rule of healthy aging is to stay away from harmful physical factors. These may include noise, air pollution, electromagnetic waves and harmful sun rays.”

Prof. Dr. Sevgi Aras listed the tricks of a healthy life as follows:

Sight and hearing

“Optimal vision and hearing are very important for the elderly. We connect with the outside world through our visual and auditory senses. The elderly should have regular eye examinations. If they have cataracts, eye pressure, distant vision, acuity problems, yellow spot disease and diabetes, they should have eye examinations related to them. Problems with vision can cause problems for elderly people, especially in terms of falls. Hearing has effects on memory. It has been proven that memory problems are more common in people with hearing impairment. Hearing tests and balance tests should be performed regularly.”

Oral and dental health

“Oral and dental health is in the first place in this regard. Unfortunately, it is a very neglected issue. For this, regular check-ups are required. Dental health is one of the most important elements required for the balanced nutritional needs of the elderly in the future. If there are problems with these, they must be eliminated.”

Healthy nutrition

“One of the most important elements of healthy living is healthy nutrition. Physical changes in the elderly bring nutritional requirements to the forefront. The balanced diet recommended for the elderly must be followed. Particular attention should be paid to the consumption of protein foods. Protein intake should be increased without too much protein restriction as recommended by the doctor. They should pay attention to the consumption of foods high in calcium and vitamin D. Nutritional needs should be met according to the diet program recommended according to the diseases. Breakfast, the most important meal of the day, should not be skipped. Fiber-rich food is especially important for elderly individuals with constipation problems.”

Water consumption

“Drinking water is also critical here. The desire to thirst decreases with aging. The body does not make the individual feel the need for water. Even if the elderly need water, they may be dehydrated because they do not feel it. Dehydration can lead to a process ranging from kidney disorders to heart diseases. They should definitely consume the recommended amount of water according to their weight.”

Regular exercise

“Exercise is a must for healthy aging. Exercise is very important in all diseases. From cardiovascular diseases to dementia, exercise has a very important role. Brisk walking, swimming and muscle strengthening exercises can be done. Exercise should never be neglected and should become a part of their daily lives.”

Vaccination

“Vaccination is very important not only for children but also for the elderly. The vaccines recommended for the elderly should be done regularly. Vaccines such as flu, pneumonia and shingles are recommended. These vaccines also prevent the deterioration of other chronic diseases of the elderly.”

Regular doctor control

“In addition to chronic diseases such as diabetes, blood pressure, lung, cardiovascular diseases, kidney diseases, hormonal diseases and cancers; the elderly are at risk for many problems that impair the quality of life brought by old age. They should not neglect regular medical check-ups for follow-up and early diagnosis of these diseases.”