Puyallup, WA – June 19, 2015 – One of the biggest fears people have about getting older is the loss of independence. So, in honor of Independence Day, CayCare is offering some tips to help us retain independence as we age.
“Aging can be a lot less scary with a little planning,” says Lisa Doyle, Registered Nurse and Owner at CayCare. “There are numerous things people can do today to help ensure getting older is less of a burden – both for themselves and their families.”
Here are some tips to help make your golden years a little more golden:
- Get moving! Exercise has enormous benefit for keeping people healthy throughout the aging cycle. British researchers discovered that those who were active at the start of an eight-year study and remained so throughout that time had the lowest incidents of chronic diseases, memory loss and physical disability.
- Eat well. Numerous studies have shown that eating healthfully can not only lower your risk of disease, but also can actually extend your life. Eating healthfully includes eating mostly whole (unprocessed) foods, including lots of fruits and vegetables, choosing healthy fats like those found in avocados and olive oil, and relying on fish, nuts and beans for most of your protein needs.
- Save your money. The flip side to living longer is that most people need more money after they retire to live comfortably. If you haven’t already, start a retirement fund by opening an IRA, joining your company’s 401k plan or setting up an account at your local credit union or bank. Being financially secure will also ease your stress level.
- Make your wishes known. Talk about the future. Make a will and an advance directive (or “living will”). A will allows you to decide who will receive the assets of your estate and an advance directive lets people know what kind of medical treatment you would want – or wouldn’t want – in the event you are unable to make these decisions.
“Getting older doesn’t have to mean losing your health and independence,” says Doyle. “People today are not only living longer, they’re living healthier than ever before. It just takes some dedication towards that goal to make it work.”
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CayCare is available to help you help ensure your loved one’s well-being. CayCare is a referral agency, offering placement services, in-home care coordination, and care management services in Pierce, King, Kitsap, and Thurston counties. Since 2005, they have helped thousands of seniors – and their families – navigate the challenges of aging, assisting them in leading fulfilling and purposeful lives. If you have questions about these services please call us at 253-777-3804 or toll free 1-844-582-7767. You can also visit online at www.caycare.com.