For previous generations, 50 was seen as old. Nowadays, when you are in your 50s you are barely in middle age. In our 50s we can be healthy, but also stronger and fitter than ever. Many people in their 50s are happier and more confident. Their bodies still feel young and healthy, but they’ve learned lessons and gained wisdom. For a growing number of people, life at 50 is wonderful. But it is a decade when your body is starting to change. Bones andmuscles can weaken, hormones can feel imbalanced,and sometimes, the signs of aging can start to kick in quite quickly. Making some important changes to your health in your 50s can help you to avoid these issues and stay young and fit into your 60s and beyond.
Trim Your Friendship Group
How many of your friends do you really love spending time with? How often do you go out with someone out of obligation, or because you have always been friends? By your 50s you are too old to be wasting time on people that don’t support you, bring you joy, and add positivity to your life. Trim your friendship circle and focus on the people that matter the most for better mental health.
Get a Personal Trainer
It can be hard to know how to exercise as you get older. Strength training is important but weakened bones can make it hard to know how far you can push yourself. Working with a personal trainer can help you to make sure you are working out safely in a way that benefits and strengthens your body.
Reduce Your Alcohol Intake
We can be guilty of overindulging when we’re young and life is rushed and stressful. But if you continue to drink too much as you move through life you start to risk a huge range of health conditions. Try to cut your alcohol intake, and make sure there are at least a few days a week when you don’t drink any.
Start Walking
When we’re young and busy we’re often in a rush, which means that we have to drive more than we’d like. If in your 50s you can slow down and start walking more. You’ll get some exercise, and you’ll spend more time out in nature.
Book in for Some Health Checks
Regular health checks are more important than ever as you get older, and changes can come more quickly. Make sure you get booked in for any routine screenings that you are offered.
Eat a Heart Healthy Diet
If you aren’t already, eating a diet that’s low in cholesterol and high in omega-3 fatty acids can help to keep your mind and your heart young and healthy.
You might find that in your 50s your children have left home, or need you less, but you don’t yet have grandchildren to look after.Your finances are more stable, and you are settled at work. This stability gives you a great chance to focus on yourself, perhaps for the first time in a long time. So, make the most of it.
