As we get older, (yes I count myself in too), it’s only natural to be concerned about our health, finances, and what comes next. Which is why Fit and Fun Life has put together some tips and info to help you overcome some of the common issues that many people face in their later years. And keep them up at night.
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Start Your Day on the right foot with a Healthy Morning Routine.
From the moment you wake up, check with yourself: are you rested? What is your mood? How fast is your resting heart rate? Which is a great indicator of stress and fatigue. (info on resting HR)
If you need it, meditate, take a few long breaths, and read a few pages from one of your favorite
inspirational books to get your spirits up.
After nourishing the mind, let's go to the kitchen and have a healthy meal.
Whether you choose protein or carbs to fill you up. Try to have some fresh unprocessed fruits and vegetables to provide for vitamin fibers and minerals.
StoryPoint Group advises eating oatmeal topped with berries, nuts, or seeds. It is a great
meal that will give you energy and keep you full for longer. Then, wash it down with a
spinach smoothie.
Find here some breakfast ideas.
While you are digesting, or finishing your coffee: get in a comfortable spot in your house (or outside), and think about what you want to do for the day. Writing your schedule and a "to do list" of small tasks is a good way to keep you focused and organized.
Failing to plan is planning to fail!
And if you are on a tight budget, you can even go into the details on how much you are willing to spend in advance. Thinking about the temptations you will face that day. The National Council on Aging suggests having a good understanding of your monthly budget to avoid financial stress. Writing down every income stream vs every expense. And checking that your finances are balanced.
You can use this free tool from MoneySmart.com.au
Finally, seek senior discounts! Most places have discounts for you, but might not think about saying it at checkout, so don't be shy and ask for it!
Next, let's now focus on another stressful subject: technology.
New technology can be intimidating, but being connected is important as you age as it can keep you sane and safe. Starting with a computer and a smart phone is the base. And you can go all the way to having an automated vacuum, fingerprint locks, voice assistant, remote climate control and wearable technology.
Most shops have expert advisors and technicians who can install and setup any system into your home. Telstra even has a "Tech savvy senior" program you should check out.
But if you want to have a quick informal chat, I am happy to help.
The good news is that those days, there are helpful advice available online for just about every concern you may have. And your questions can now be very complex thanks to the power of Chat GPT (https://chatgpt.com/). If you have never tried it, give it a go, it is something you need to experience to understand.
But It’s critical to verify your sources and not trust everyone or everything on the first go, not even Chat GPT which is just extrapolating the data found on the internet. (and there is a lot of crap on the internet too).
Don't trust people calling you to "save" you, and asking you to give some personal information or to do things quickly. Remember that sometimes, you need to cool off to avoid being victim of a scam or a pushy salesperson ;-)
It was 601,000 scams reported last year, and losses for people over the age of 65 increased by 13.3% in 2023 to $120 million... (report here)
As a rule, if someone calls you from your bank or a company you are really involved with: tell them that YOU will call them back! And you do so it via the number written on your bills or their official website. Not the link that person sent you...
And install an anti-virus on your computer so you can't end up on fake websites. I use AVAST, that has a free and paid version.
Technology can make you safer at home, but also make basic tasks faster and easier. Fitting your home to become "smart" can help with switching all the lights off when you go to bed, activating or disactivating your alarm, or starting the heater before you get home to save on energy.
Lots of solutions exist and some of them are easy to add in an existing home. Check this article to know more: "Retirees, Transform Your House Using Smart Home Technology"
Ok, another scarry but necessary one to tackle: please follow Up on your Medical Conditions!
The technique of the Ostrich never helped anyone. And any condition is better to be treated as early as possible. So if something looks or feel wrong, ask your doctor about it.
Whether you have a chronic condition, like diabetes or arthritis, or are just managing the
normal aches and pains of aging, keep up with your medical care. Take notes about everything and keep your records in order. "My health records" is a service from the Australian government doing just that:
Also think about keeping a note in your wallet about your main conditions, allergies and emergency contact details. And ultimately your last wishes (would you give your body for science, or give your organs?)
Accidents happen when you expect them the least (by definition). And wearing an emergency button around your neck when you are alone is a great reflex to have. Think about it, if you were to fall away from your phone: when is the next time that someone will come to check on you at your place? And who has a double of your keys to check on you if you don't answer the phone?
Setting up an alarm is a good way to prepare the chain of care and allow for help to reach you faster.
If you require daily care or help around the house, there are a few options also.
Firstly, adapting your home to reduce risks of injury. Avoiding stairs, sleeping bathrooms and uneven floors. Keeping your place clean and free of clutter will help keep you calm and organised. Or moving to a more appropriate place. Have you ever visited a retirement village? I saw a few, and I am sad being too young to go there yet!
Look at this 2 minutes video from 9 news
You can also adapt how much you do by yourself. And get a house cleaner, an in-home care specialist, or a housekeeper who helps with meals or supermarket trips.
There are government-funded care services available! https://www.rightathome.com.au/
And don't hesitate to ask for help, even if it is to get someone to drive you somewhere. I am sure that your friends and family will be happy to help in exchange for a home cooked diner ;-)
Staying mobile is staying active!
Another alternative is to rent your spare room to someone who can offer some help and companionship services in exchange...
It is already happening in the Gold Coast (article from ABC news)
And the government might even let pensioners rent their rooms without having to lose benefits. (nationalseniors.com.au).
So let me know what you think! Should I launch it in Sydney?
I already have the draft website: www.silver-stays.com.au
Any feedback is appreciated.
Fit and Fun Life is here to help you stay active and feel better – let us know if you have
any questions!
Article from Melody Durupt and Susan Treadway
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