As we age, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to stay energised. This can include:

• Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.

• Staying physically active through regular exercise such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

• Getting enough sleep each night to allow your body to rest and rejuvenate.

• Managing stress through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.

• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can contribute to fatigue and decreased energy levels.

Additionally, you should see a healthcare provider for regular check-ups and screenings to help identify and address any underlying health issues that may be affecting your energy levels and should consult with a doctor or dietitian if we suspect any vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

It is also important to note that as we age, our body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food decreases, so it is important to include nutrient-rich foods in our diet and to consider taking a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement.

But is it safe to exercise in old age?

Exercise is generally safe and beneficial for older adults, as long as we take precautions to avoid injury. Of course, it is important to consult with your doctor before starting an exercise programme, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Here are a few tips for safe exercise in old age:

1. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise over time.
2. Focus on exercises that improve cardiovascular fitness, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, as well as exercises that improve muscle strength and flexibility, such as resistance training and yoga.
3. Be mindful of balance and stability, and include exercises that improve balance and coordination, such as tai chi or yoga.
4. Avoid high-impact exercises, such as running, if you have joint problems, and consider low-impact alternatives such as swimming or cycling.
5. Use proper technique and form to avoid injury and pay attention to your body’s signals, rest when you need to and do not push yourself too hard.
6. Incorporate some form of cardiovascular and strength training on a regular basis, being sure to include both aerobic and resistance exercises.

Listen to your body, if you experience pain, discomfort, or symptoms such as chest pain, light-headedness, or difficulty breathing, stop exercising and seek medical attention.

Does exercise make you happy?

Exercise has been shown to also have a positive effect on mood and emotional well-being. Regular physical activity has been linked to improvements in depression, anxiety, and overall feelings of happiness. It can…

• boost the production of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators.

• help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting the release of stress-reducing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.

• improve sleep, which can in turn improve mood and overall well-being.

• help to increase self-esteem and confidence.

• improve cognitive function, which can lead to a better mood and more positive outlook on life.

• provide an opportunity to socialise and connect with others, which can be beneficial for mental health.

• help you focus on self-care, which can be beneficial for mental health.

And while we recognise that the effects of exercise on mood can vary from person to person and that not everyone will experience the same benefits, incorporating regular physical activity into your routine is likely to have some positive effects on mood and overall well-being.

Why else should we stay energised as we age?

There are several good reasons:

1. Maintaining energy levels allows us to stay active and engaged in activities that we enjoy, which can improve our overall quality of life.
2. Being physically active can help improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and bone density, which can help to prevent age-related diseases such as osteoporosis and heart disease.
3. Adequate sleep is necessary for maintaining physical and mental well-being. When we don’t get enough sleep, we can feel tired, irritable, and have a harder time concentrating.
4. Managing stress is important for overall health, as chronic stress can lead to a variety of health problems such as high blood pressure, anxiety, and depression.
5. Having enough energy also helps to maintain good cognitive function as we age.
6. Staying energised enables us to do more things and be more independent, which is important for maintaining a sense of purpose and self-worth.
7. Being energised helps us to take better care of ourselves, which is important for overall health and well-being.

In summary

It is important to stay active and exercise as we age, as it can help to improve overall health and well-being, and reduce the risk of age-related diseases. However, it is also important to be mindful of our limitations, and to exercise safely and with proper guidance to avoid injury.