If there’s one revolutionary truth we know about aging , it’s that time is of the essence.
Before we know it, 20 years become 40 and then 40 becomes 60. This is why it’s so important to start taking care of ourselves before it’s too late.
But the advice on how to take care of yourself is different than the advice given to a man, or even a 16-year-old female.
That’s why the information found here is perfectly catered for the beautiful older women of the world. Come let yourself shine with these must-know tips!
Exercise as much as you can, even if it’s for a little bit
Any activity is better than nothing! So this Redditor shared if you don’t have the energy to do a full workout, do the bare minimum to get your blood moving. This could be walking the dog or doing a quick set of squats or situps.
Keep making friends and fostering friendships
“My former boss (retired now, in her 60s) has a group of girlfriends. They vacation together, go golfing, shopping, dining etc. I commended her on this and she explained that her husband is a lot older than her and she was aware that he would likely pass away before her, and she didn’t want to be alone.” -u/ salsasandwich
Practice safe sun protection
This benefits you in two ways: to look more youthful and to prevent skin cancer. This Redditor shared that a wide-brimmed summer hat, sunglasses, and a full-sleeve rashguard are her go-to’s when at the beach. This might look a little over-the-top, but it’s better than getting sunburnt or finding new moles.
Get rid of stuff you don’t need
“We have so much crap and I don’t want my kids to get stuck cleaning it all out at some point, hopefully in the very far future. It’s a normal amount of stuff, but my dad had barely any ‘stuff’ and it still took weeks to go through.” – u/ queenoreo
Make an accessibility plan for your house
For instance, this Redditor has a ten-year plan to make her home handicap-friendly before she retires. She wants even floors that are wheelchair-friendly and showers that are safe to get in and out of, and even plans to move her water heater upstairs. It’s better to do these things now while you’re still capable.
Be kind to yourself now
“You know who thinks you look great? You, ten years from now. Embrace and enjoy the body you have right here, right now. Focus on all the things it can do, and all the parts that work well and don’t hurt. This body you’re maybe way too critical of now will likely be a body you’ll think of fondly in the future so you may as well treat it fondly now.” – u/ TigerLily98226
Moisturize daily
Your skin will thank you many years from now! Moisturizing isn’t just meant for the winter; it should be applied head-to-toe 365 days of the year. I keep a bottle right beside my bed to make it easier to remember to apply.
Learn absolutely everything you can about perimenopause and menopause
“We don’t talk about it enough or adequately share lived experience. It all starts far earlier than most women realize and hot flashes are the very least of it. We are woefully unprepared for this process.” – u/ Glindanorth
Drink less alcohol and coffee
Alcohol and coffee have a major thing in common: they’re both normalized addictions that can affect the body in detrimental ways. So try swapping out these drinks whenever you can for lots of water instead.
Start saving for retirement now
“Please, please, please, save for retirement. I worked in financial advising, the saddest calls were the elderly who got their social security (USA) in the amount of $1000 a month and a pension of $500 per month from their employer. $1500 a month. That is it. They’d be sobbing if that check was a day late. My heart broke every single time.” -u/ katerineia
Do strength training
While it may seem counter-productive due to the strength required, strength training leads to stronger bones and better joint flexibility. This will help keep you from spraining bones easily as you get older.
Get your colonoscopy as soon as you turn the recommended age
“If you have colon cancer, you won’t have symptoms until it’s something like Stage 4.
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And cancer is hell to go through. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. A colonoscopy isn’t exactly the most pleasant experience in the world. But cancer is far worse!” -u/ secretid89
Stay up-to-date on your pap smears
Sure, they’re awkward as hell and may even hurt, but the benefits outweigh all that. It’s so important to catch issues early rather than wait until it’s almost too late.
Daily walking
“Even just 20 minutes makes a difference and I feel so much better now that I’m walking more. I think everyone gets wrapped up in the gym or intense cardio for exercise but it really doesn’t have to be that intense.” – u/ crazynekosama
Build your physical balance
This will be a lifesaver as you age, wrote one Reddit user. It will help you prevent falls when your muscles are weaker. You can invest in barefoot-style shoes that let your toes splay. This increases balance and proprioception.
Drink enough water
“Drink the damn recommended amount per day or at least drink more water than coffee, alcohol or soft drinks. Your skin, hair, joints, and entire body will thank you.” – u/ caternicus
Take care of your teeth
Floss and brush your teeth daily. Just remember: preventative care is a lot easier (and less expensive) than emergency care. Plus, losing your teeth ain’t cute.
Take vitamins daily
“Even if you only manage to get a daily multi-vitamin, your body will thank you in the long run for a proper, healthy level of nutrients in your body. Adding in others like glucosamine, vitamin c, vitamin d, vitamin b are added bonuses!” -u/ SilverSorceress
Take care of your eyes
Make sure you attended regular eye appointments! Treat it with the same importance as other health concerns in your life. This Redditor recently realized that they have a higher chance of getting glaucoma and that can lead to blindness in old age if not treated young.
H/T: Reddit