If you ask the residents of retirement villages in Victoria, pretty much all of them would prefer a long, happy life. Studies say the life expectancy for Australians in 2022 is 83.79 years. But hitting 100 is not only a great feat—but it also has its merits and benefits. Here are 20 tips on how to live longer:
- Eat breakfast
People that belong to the 40-75 age group are 87% more prone to die from cardiovascular diseases later on if they skip breakfast according to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
- Cut down on meat
The experts at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that eating an extra half-serving of red meat increases a person’s mortality by 9% (13% for processed meat) over eight years. Switch to baked fish or grilled chicken instead of fried to lower your cholesterol.
- Less salt and sugar
The same Harvard scientists also suggested that sugary drinks increase the risk for early death by 21%. On the other hand, high sodium levels can cause serious health problems over time.
- Mind the scales
With all this food talk, we must not forget to maintain a healthy weight. Losing 5-10% of body weight will help prevent life-threatening chronic diseases.
- Use a smaller plate
Trick yourself from overeating by using smaller plates to control your portion sizes and calories.
- Check your plumbing
Colon cancer is one of the most common diseases. Ask your doctor about fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kits you can use at home.
- Drink your water
Speaking of digestive health, never underestimate the benefits water does to your body. Research shows that dehydration is linked to various illnesses that could cause early deaths.
- Drop the booze
There are many myths surrounding alcohol and its benefits. But statistics estimated that 14,800 deaths and 88,000 hospital visits in 2014 can be blamed on booze.
- Socialize
Researchers at the University of Helsinki in 2018 said that loners are 43% more likely to have a heart attack or stroke. So make sure to surround yourself with people that are good for you.
- Embrace nature
Aside from making friends, outdoor activities like jogging and hiking are proven ways to lower death rates by 8-12% over 10 years. It’s important to choose a luxury lifestyle resort that offers nature activities.
- Put on your walking shoes
If jogging and hiking are not for you, then walking is the next best thing. According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, an hour of leisure stroll per week can reduce the death rate by 18%.
- Rebuild your bones
The folks at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Darlinghurst observed that slowing down age-related bone loss with exercise and medication can lower early deaths by 34%.
- Go to the eye doctor
A 2014 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association proved that loss of vision in seniors reduces independence and mobility plus can lead to accidents. Correcting your vision can lower the risks.
- Get a full night’s rest
People who don’t get their eight hours are more likely to develop diabetes and mental illness.
- Manage stress
People with underlying conditions that are exposed to high levels of cortisol have an increased death rate by 39-43%. Exercise, meditation, and being surrounded by pets can lower stress.
- Have a positive outlook
Having a positive outlook in life is not only fortune cookie wisdom, Studies from Boston show that optimism increases lifespan by 50% for women and 70% for men.
- Avoid third-hand smoke
If you don’t smoke, avoiding people who smoke is easy. Avoiding third-hand smoke (cigarette residue in clothes and furniture) is the challenging part. Always clean and be careful of your environment.
- Share the load
A study made at the Johns Hopkins University Center on Aging and Health showed that caring for loved ones or pets can extend life expectancy by 18%. Having manageable responsibilities can also improve self-esteem.
- Live closer to amenities
Living alone or having no access to health services are risky for seniors. Living in retirement lifestyle villages is a wise decision.
- Get regular consultations
When you are getting up in age, it’s vital to have regular visits to the doctor to better monitor your overall health.
If you are looking for a luxury lifestyle resort or retirement village in Victoria that promotes health and wellness, feel free to call Aviva Communities at 0447-641-770.
