TIPS FOR BETTER LIVING
TIPS FOR BETTER LIVING
Dr. Marie George, SVMC Infectious Disease
ADULT HEALTH
Get moving. Sitting for long stretches has been linked to a number of health conditions including obesity, heart disease and diabetes. To reduce risks, take a 10-minute standing or walking break every hour.
Keep your friends close. A strong friend network has been found to reduce individual levels of stress and anxiety and contribute to overall happiness. Make time to regularly connect with friends in person.
SENIOR HEALTH
Stay current on screenings. Preventive screenings are a great way to stay ahead of potential health problems. Talk to your provider about what screenings you should consider.
Baby your skin. The skin is the biggest organ of our body. As we age, our skin becomes more susceptible to dryness, infection, and disease. It also requires more time to heal. Use mild soaps and moisturize regularly after baths and showers.
Dr. Lixia Ellis, SVMC Dermatology
Stay active. Even just 10 minutes of daily exercise twice a day can improve your strength, balance, and flexibility and can help you maintain your independence. Ask your doctor for an exercise plan that works for you.
Get vaccinated. Vaccines are simple and effective ways to avoid potentially life-threatening diseases including the flu, pneumonia, and shingles. Ask your doctor which ones are right for you.
Floss. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease. Daily flossing helps remove the bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
Limit screen time. Prolonged exposure to the light from digital devices can cause slow damage to the retina. For every 20 minutes you stare at a digital screen, shift your gaze 20 feet away for several seconds or more to allow your eye muscles to relax.
Protect your skin from the sun. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Look for sunscreens that protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Apply generously and reapply every two hours or more if you’ re swimming or perspiring.
Start with a stretch. A 5-10 minute stretching routine in the morning provides a mental release, relief from muscle tension, and can enhance posture by strengthening the muscles in your back.
78 svhealthcare. org