It’s Not Too Late!
If you’re young, you’ll want to heed this wisdom from older people! They definitely know better, since they have lived through it all and know first-hand the ramifications of poor habits. With that in mind, here are 20 things most people wish they started doing sooner to take care of their health.
1. The Value of Sleep
Retired or elderly folks often wish they had understood the importance of getting enough sleep sooner in life. Sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health, and it is easy to not realize how poor sleep can impact energy, mood, and overall long-term wellness. The elderly can teach us to prioritize and enjoy good sleep.
2. Tinnitus
Older people often regret not having taken care of their ears earlier in life. They used to listen to music concerts for hours on end or use headphones for days at a time without knowing the damage being done to their ears. All of this eventually leads to tinnitus.
3. Wearing Sunscreen
A lot of older people regret not wearing sunscreen when they were young, particularly those who spent much time outdoors. Failing to protect your skin from the sun may result in premature aging and potential damage. Beginning early and wearing sunscreen on a daily basis may help you keep your skin healthier and be an example for others.
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4. Wearing Sunglasses
A lot of seniors regret not wearing sunglasses more often to protect their eyes and prevent cataracts. Years of sunlight exposure may damage your eyes, so early prevention is best. The advice of older people is important to listen to when it comes to protecting eyes for the long term.
5. Hydrating
If older people could do just one thing over again, it would be consistently drinking more water every day. It is such a simple, routine activity, but when ignored the other tell-tale signs can show up in blood panels and urine test results. It's not too late to get back in the habit of making that positive difference.
6. Excessive Drinking
Many older adults regret not seeing the perils of overindulgence in alcohol sooner in their lives. Getting assistance at an early stage can avert lasting health concerns and enhance overall quality of life. It is easier to address drinking-related problems when they are detected and treated early on with the help of others.
7. Monitoring Blood Pressure
Older people regret not checking their blood pressure regularly from a young age. Neglecting to do so could result in major events, like a stroke. Checking it regularly can help prevent long-term effects when addressed early.
8. Stretching
Older adults wish they had paid more attention to stretching and flexibility when they were younger. Staying flexible helps prevent injuries, improves mobility, and supports overall physical health as we age. Regular stretching can make daily activities easier and keep the body feeling younger for longer.
9. Advocating for Yourself
As we get older, many of us find that we should have been more forceful on our own behalf, particularly in conversations with our doctors. Countless women have symptoms that are brushed off or attributed to anxiety, which leads to delayed diagnosis and needless suffering. It's worth learning to insist that our doctors listen and take us seriously before we develop a serious health problem.
10. Quality Shoes
Older people regret not buying quality shoes years ago. Good shoes help you avoid chronic foot, back, and joint pain. Pick supportive shoes to stay comfortable and mobile later in life.
11. Monitoring Your Teeth
Seniors regret not taking care of their teeth when they were younger. By neglecting the dentist in your late teens and early twenties, you're opening yourself up to problems like tooth decay or loss. Regular visits and proper dental hygiene can keep you from developing painful and expensive issues in later life.
12. A Better Diet
Older people often regret not learning the importance of a balanced diet sooner. Relying on convenience foods or takeout can make it more difficult to stay healthy in the long run. Learning to prepare your own meals can be very helpful for your health.
13. Managing Stress
Older adults regret not learning how to handle stress sooner. Chronic anxiety or the daily grind can majorly affect mental and physical health. Learning healthy coping strategies earlier in life can help immensely.
14. Therapy
Seniors regret not getting help sooner. The longer you wait, the more time you waste in your own emotional battle. Hardships are more difficult to get through when you're in a depressed state of mind, and the right therapist can help you overcome this.
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15. Time Off
Retirees say they wished they had taken more days off from work earlier in their careers. Shorter, more frequent days off from work will prevent burnout. It will also help keep you from wearing yourself down. Plan longer breaks once or twice a year to rest. Long breaks in your calendar will also allow time for physicals and doctor's checkups.
16. Strength Training
Older adults regret not spending more time lifting weights as a young person. A youthful investment in strength training pays dividends for the body, mind, and metabolism for the rest of your life. Muscles will be there for you, when certain acquired skills may not be.
17. A Nightguard
Elders would love to go back in time and wear a night guard to protect their teeth while sleeping. Years of teeth grinding have caused a great deal of cracking and damage. A night guard, when worn earlier in life, can help maintain good dental health and save on costly repairs.
18. Getting Fiber
Older adults would love to have consumed fiber earlier in life. Proper digestion and gut health are vital to a healthier and complication-free you. Not eating the right things now could have irreversible effects later.
19. Joining Activities
Retirees regret not following their passions and hobbies. Stop worrying about body image or fitting in to do what makes you happy. Picking up a hobby increases your confidence, well-being, and overall joy.
20. Get Moving
Seniors regret not having exercised when they were younger. Experiences as a child or teenager can sour one on physical activity. A health and happiness makeover is possible if one finds an enjoyable form of exercise, be it hiking, biking, or swimming.
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