The years lived over the age of 70 should be, above all, enjoyed to the full. History shows a staggering range of achievement by men and women over 70, and there is no reason for anyone to think he or she cannot reach new heights in these decades of life. although these are the years in which the physical aging process takes its toll, a positive and youthful attitude, reflected in a willingness to learn, participate and enjoy, will pay enormous dividends in terms of the quality and length of life.
Emotional and Mental Health, Leisure
• Think positive about life. You can have many years ahead of you, and you can still find new things to learn and do.
• Cultivate young people; it will help you to keep a youthful outlook on life.
• Face up to the fact of death, and discuss it with your family.
Share your experience and memories. Be prepared to help younger people; they can learn a lot from you.
• Remember to have fun. Go to the movies or a show, or just out for a meal.
Work, Finance and Family
• These are the years, you should enjoy to the fullest, so don’t economize unnecessarily.
• Continue to be a good friend to your children, and a caring grand or great grandparent.
• Get out of the house every day if possible. Have you found some volunteer work to do? Is there an interesting series of lecture to go to at the library?
• Make a will, or revise an existing on if necessary.
Fitness and Body Care
Most people tend to need less sleep as they get older. Avoid sleeping too much because you are bored – there are plenty of interesting things to fill your time.
• Motivate yourself to exercise, so that you maintain strength and flexibility, but don’t try to do too much.
• Continue to take pride in your appearance, and maintain a routine of caring for your body.
• Take only those medications that you really need.
Food and Drink
• Make sure you eat at least one cooked meal a day, and avoid eating a big meal late at night.
• Eat a wide variety of foods, including fresh fruit and vegetables.
• Depending on your level of physical activity, you might need to adjust your calorie intake. Be sure you are eating enough to provide the energy to be active.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially during warm weather.
Health Checks
• Have a blood pressure test and EKG annually.
• Visit the dentist and hygienist every six months.
• This is the age at which you might notice a loss of hearing. There are many unobtrusive aids to help you overcome this, so have your hearing tested every year.
• Have your eyesight tested every year.
• Women should continue to check their breasts every month.
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