Lisa Conway – FLORIDA TODAY

Q: What are your top health tips for older women? 

A:Maintaining optimal health is crucial for women at every stage of life. From hormonal changes to mental well-being, a balanced approach to nutrition, fitness, and self-care is essential. Here’s a list of tips to post on the fridge or somewhere you will see it often!

 

  1. Prioritize Nutrition

A well-balanced diet supports energy levels, hormonal balance, and helps prevent disease.

  • Protein & Healthy Fats: Lean meats, fish, nuts, and avocados keep muscles strong and hormones stable.
  • Fiber-Rich Foods: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables aid digestion and heart health.
  • Calcium & Vitamin D: Dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods support bone health, reducing osteoporosis risk.
  • Hydration: Obey your thirst and remember to drink water for skin health and digestion.

 

  1. Stay Active

Regular exercise keeps the heart healthy, reduces stress, and strengthens bones/muscles.

  • Strength Training: Helps maintain bone density and muscle tone.
  • Cardio: Walking, running, or cycling improves heart health and boosts mood.
  • Yoga & Stretching: Enhances flexibility, reduces stress, and supports posture.

 

  1. Hormones & Reproductive Health

Hormones play a crucial role in more than just mood:

  • Track Your Cycle: Monitor irregularities, ovulation, and hormonal changes –and communicate with your doctor.
  • Manage PMS & Menopause Symptoms: Healthy eating, hydration, and reducing stress are key.
  • Regular Gynecological Checkups: Keep screenings like Pap smears and mammograms up to date.

 

  1. Mental Health

Your outlook is key to overall well-being.

  • Prioritize Sleep: 7-9 hours nightly helps support brain function and immunity.
  • Practice Mindfulness: Meditation, deep breathing, and gratitude journals can reduce anxiety.
  • Social Connections: Strong relationships with friends and loved ones support emotional health.

 

  1. Preventive Care

Early detection can prevent serious illnesses.

  • Annual Checkups: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.
  • Cancer Screenings: Mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies as recommended.
  • Skin & Dental Health: Apply sunscreen daily, brush (and floss).

 

  1. Smart Lifestyle Choices

Habits for long-term wellness:

  • Avoid Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Reduces cancer and heart disease risk.
  • Manage Weight: Maintain a healthy BMI to lower disease risks.
  • Take Time for Yourself: Engage in hobbies and relaxation techniques –enjoy life!

 

Women’s health is a lifelong commitment. Taking time for your own health will benefit everyone in your life who loves you and depends on you. One Senior Place will celebrate Women’s Day events in Altamonte Springs (April 11) and Viera (May 2): a day of fun, prizes and information focused entirely on the well-being needs of women. RSVP online at OneSeniorPlace.com/events.

 

Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and a Certified Care Manager for Senior Partner Care Services, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.