The Importance of Activity and Health for Seniors

When we’re young, we go to the dentist for a cleaning every six months and the optometrist once a year for a vision exam. As we age, doctor visits become more frequent; many seniors have regular visits each week to monitor their health! This preventative measure helps identify acute illness and serious disease sooner, so your aging family member can start treatment as needed.

What are the benefits of keeping older loved ones active and healthy?

Keep Your Mind Sharp

Reading, crossword puzzles and other types of brain training help improve your cognitive function and potentially prolong your life. Keeping the minds of seniors active may help improve the early symptoms of progressive diseases like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Brain training may help slow down the disease process, which attacks and destroys brain cells over time.

Monitor Medication Interactions

If seniors are on several medications at the same time, these drugs can have a negative impact on mood, health and behavior when they interact. Regular doctor visits can help recognize warning signs and dangerous dosages before symptoms become even more harmful to overall health and wellness.

Live a Longer, Happier Life

In addition to brain games, regular physical activity can prolong an aging person’s life. Exercise raises your energy level and produces dopamine in the brain, a chemical that makes us happy. Many seniors suffer from depression due to isolation and inactivity, but physical activity and proper nutrition help us feel better.

Take Advantage of Medicare

If you’re the primary caregiver of a loved one who is worried about the cost of doctor visits, did you know that physicals are free for the first year of Medicare? Every year following, annual wellness visits are free of charge. At West Hartford Health & Rehabilitation Center, we accept traditional Medicare, as well as Optum (and other carriers) that provide alternative health insurance to Medicare for long-term residents.

Seeking skilled nursing care? Contact West Hartford Health & Rehabilitation Center today!