EAT A HEALTHFUL DIET. An eating plan rich
in fruits, vegetables and whole grains is key
to avoiding many of the health problems that often
occur in older adults. Learn more about heart-healthy
cooking at an Oregon Heart & Vascular Institute
class on Oct. 27. To register, call
541-222-7216
.
To fnd the provider who’s right
for you, call 541-743-4600.
50
The road to
health after
ONCE YOU TURN 50 years old, staying healthy can mean paying
closer attention to the details. In fact, you may want a medical map to
help keep things straight.
Fortunately, there is a map, and it’s relatively easy to follow. It
starts with steps you can take on your own—lifestyle choices that can
prevent or control many conditions that cause illness or premature
death.
According to the National Institute on Aging, you can get on the
road to health with these steps:
EXERCISE REGULARLY. This can help you
reduce your risk for many diseases. Exercise
can also improve your balance and help you avoid
falls. Try to get 150 minutes a week of moderate-
intensity aerobic activity—such as bicycling, brisk
walking or pushing a lawn mower. On two or
more days of the week, you should also do
muscle-strengthening activities that
work all major muscle groups.
STAY ENGAGED. Get out
and have some fun. Studies
show that older adults who are
involved in hobbies or social
activities live longer, healthier
lives than their more
isolated peers.
DON’T SMOKE.
If you’re a smoker,
it’s important that you try
to quit. Quitting will reduce
your risks for cancer, heart
attack and lung disease, and will
likely add years to your life. Are you
ready to quit? Oregon Heart & Vascular
Institute at Sacred Heart Medical Center
offers a tobacco cessation program.
Call
541-222-7442
to fnd out more.
WATCH YOUR WEIGHT. Weighing too
much or too little can increase your risk
for a number of diseases or even premature
death. Ask your doctor about your ideal
weight and how to maintain it.
Check in for
checkups and more
To stay on course for health, you’ll need to keep in
touch with your doctor.
All adults should have their blood pressure
checked at least every two years. It’s also important
to have your cholesterol checked regularly—ask
your doctor how often you need this test.
And depending on your sex, age and health
risks, you may need additional screenings
or preventive measures, including a fu shot;
mammogram; colonoscopy; mental health
screening; pneumonia shot; shingles vaccination;
diabetes screening; daily aspirin to help prevent
heart attack or stroke; bone density scan to screen
for osteoporosis; or abdominal aortic aneurysm
screening.
National Institute on Aging
Wellness
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Health Connection