Protect your health

Both types of doctors can treat a wide variety of conditions; a geriatric specialist will have expertise in the issues associated with older people, typically 65-plus. Some reasons to consult a geriatrician are: If you have multiple medical conditions, if treatment for one condition negatively affects a second one, if you are experiencing functional decline or physical frailty or if you are managing multiple medications.

Research shows that persons with mental/emotional health issues are more likely to have a preventable health problem. Your mental health can impact the ability to motivate yourself to live a healthy lifestyle, including exercise and mindful eating. Our emotions are often connected to physical symptoms such as having a headache when we are sad and dealing with an upset stomach when anxious.

Physical activity is good for your body and for your mental outlook. Exercising releases feel-good chemicals known as endorphins inside your brain. Exercise also helps improve your happiness by breaking the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety. The Mayo Clinic reports physical exercise can improve mood and reduce anxiety. Just ten minutes of brisk walking boosts mental alertness while helping create a positive outlook. Exercise can include daily routine activities such as gardening, washing your car, even cleaning your house.

If your exercise program would benefit from additional discipline, encouragement, and also fitness expertise, having a personal trainer for a fitness coach may be right for you. Trainers provide accountability and motivation from a professional who has a vested interest seeing your complete workouts that are appropriate to your age, physical condition, and goals. Of course a good trainer knows how to push you beyond your comfort zone -- and when to stop before pain or injury occurs. Check with your healthcare professional before engaging in any rigorous exercise program.

Aerobic exercise, strength training, balance, and flexibility are the recommended exercise protocols for people over 55. For most of us, the risk of heart attack is low, and the correct exercise program is going to be beneficial for your heart. Use common sense. Stay hydrated. Start slow. Stop if you feel lightheaded, dizzy, nauseated or feel tightness or pain. As for joints, WebMD has a study showing people over 60 with arthritis in their knees have less pain and better joint function with exercise. You must always begin an exercise program with the consent and involvement of your physician or primary health care provider.

There are many steps you can take to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Meditation, including mindful breathing, is among the most common, with physical exercise close behind. There is also a link between nutrition and emotional wellness. Staying mentally stimulated, having a strong social network, and maintaining positive thoughts will all contribute to mental health.

It’s never too late to start taking care of yourself, realizing of course that you should begin slowly and build up. As noted throughout this section, it’s important to have the consent of your healthcare provider. There are dozens of low impact exercises and activities that will contribute to physical wellbeing. You don’t have to become a triathlete to make gains in this area. Any activity that involves movement is good for you. The important thing is to stay physically active, mentally positive and nutritionally balanced.