Help Your Aging Parents Stay Healthy

As our parents age, their health becomes a top priority. You can help your loved ones stay healthy and active, including protecting them against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). From encouraging exercise to discussing vaccines, we'll cover key aspects of senior wellness. Even small changes can make a big difference in their quality of life.

Regular physical activity is crucial for healthy aging. Encourage your parents to stay active with exercises suitable for their fitness level. Walking, swimming, or gentle yoga can improve strength, balance, and overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. Always consult their doctor before starting a new exercise routine, especially if they have existing health conditions.

Help your parents focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Ensure they drink plenty of water. As people age, their body's thirst signal diminishes so they may not realize they are dehydrated. Consider meal planning or grocery shopping together to make healthy eating easier. If needed, consult a dietitian for nutrition advice tailored to their specific health needs.

Mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Encourage your parents to stay socially active by connecting with friends, joining community groups, or volunteering. Suggest activities that challenge their minds, like puzzles or learning new skills. Help them manage stress through relaxation techniques or enjoyable hobbies.

Preventive care is crucial for early detection of health issues. Help your parents schedule regular checkups, including annual physicals, vision tests, and hearing exams. Ensure they're up to date with recommended screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies, and bone density scans. Don't forget about dental checkups too.

Falls can be a serious risk for older adults. Help make your parents' home safer by removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars in bathrooms, and ensuring good lighting throughout the house. Encourage the use of assistive devices if needed, such as canes or walkers. Regular vision checks and reviewing medications that may affect balance are also important steps in preventing falls.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can be particularly dangerous for older adults, potentially leading to severe respiratory infections. Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. RSV often circulates during fall and winter, similar to flu season. Encourage good hygiene and encourage your loved ones to get the RSV vaccine if they qualify.

The CDC recommends everyone age 75 and older get vaccinated against RSV. Adults ages 60 to 74 should get the vaccine if they have a higher risk of severe RSV, such as having chronic heart problems, a chronic lung or respiratory disease, severe obesity, certain diabetes conditions, or if they live in a nursing home. The vaccine is given as a single shot before RSV season. People don't need to get a new dose each year.