Older Is Wiser: Real Men Protect Their Health

We all know that June is the month in which we celebrate Father’s Day, but did you know that this is also Men’s Health Month? Specifically, Men’s Health Week – June 9-15 – is celebrated worldwide! We want our dads – and all men – to live long and healthy lives. So let’s talk about how men “of a certain age” can do just that to maintain the best possible quality of life in retirement.

What’s Different as Men Grow Older?

While the average lifespan for American women is a bit more than 80 years, for men it’s just 75 years. HealthinAging.org reports that “research suggests that a leading reason for the ‘longevity gap’ between men and women is that men don’t take care of themselves as well as women do.” The result?

• 34% of American men are obese
• 32% have high blood pressure
• Heart disease is the #1 cause of death
• Lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers (in that order) are the most common causes of cancer death

You’re Never Too Old to Take Action

Most healthy living tips are things we already know, but this is a good time to take stock. Are you (or the senior men in your life) actually following these common-sense guidelines? We’re talking about:

• Eating a healthy diet to maintain an appropriate weight
• Exercising – physical activity keeps you stronger, improves balance, and is good for your heart
• Getting enough sleep
• Just saying no to smoking
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Using sunscreen
• Using your brain – games, puzzles, learning new things – AARP has ways to help you stay sharp

But, guys, you can do more.

See your doctor regularly.

Men are famous for avoiding this, but wouldn’t you rather feel as good as possible? Besides, waiting to divulge problems or concerns could be disastrous. For example, sexual concerns are common among older men, and erectile dysfunction can sometimes indicate early heart or artery disease. And deaths from prostate cancer have dropped dramatically in the past two decades, thanks in large part to earlier detection and treatment advancements.

So, get screened – not only for prostate cancer but for:

• Bone health
• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Hearing
• Vision

Along with screenings, ask your doctor if you should take advantage of flu, pneumonia, or shingles vaccines. And remember that, every 10 years, it’s time to update your tetanus booster.

Ask about calcium or vitamin D supplements you may need to help prevent falls and bone fractures. Weight-bearing exercises help build bone as well as muscle strength.

See your dentist regularly.

Seniors have a greater risk of cavities, and we now know there is a close correlation between dental health and overall health.

Put your Medicare to good use.

Coverage includes many preventive services that are especially beneficial for older gents, and taking advantage of them can help you avoid or lessen health problems.

Be good to yourself.

Self-care helps boost both physical health and emotional well-being. For many of us, spirituality becomes even more important as we age, so it’s important to nurture yourself in that way as well. Our Magnolia Manor senior living communities offer worship and pastoral care opportunities, and some of them even have men’s Bible study classes.

Socialize.

It’s all too easy to feel lonely or isolated as family members move away or you find yourself surrounded by fewer close friends. But staying connected keeps your mind engaged and makes it easier to stay physically active, too. Moving to a senior living community such as one of our Magnolia Manor campuses can give a hefty boost to your lifestyle, everyday enjoyment, and sense of purpose.

In independent or assisted living, you’ll find camaraderie among men (and, yes, women) who share your interests, great food you don’t have to prepare yourself, and carefree living that can help you stay healthier, longer in mind, body, and spirit.

Magnolia Manor Offers Lots of Opportunities for Active Living

5 of our 8 senior living campuses in south Georgia offer Independent Living and/or Assisted Living, and all of our campuses offer a full calendar of activities each month to help residents socialize and stay active. Come see for yourself how wonderful senior living can be. Call us any time at 1-855-540-LIFE (5433) to schedule a tour.