Empowering mens health Essential tips for men age 60 and older
By Dr. David Samadi
As men reach their 60s and beyond, it becomes highly essential for them to prioritize their health. According to experts, men who take care of themselves tend to live longer and healthier lives. Self-care practices not only make men happier and help them cope with stress better, but also give them more energy. It can also help lower the risk of cancer, stroke, and heart disease.
Here are some essential tips for men 60 and older to consider:
Stay Cognitively fit
As men age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain an actively engaged and stimulated mind. Participating in activities that promote cognitive function, such as reading, socializing, solving puzzles, or exploring new hobbies, can significantly enhance mental acuity and sharpness. Additionally, it is essential to recognize that physical exercise stimulates brain activity. Whether delving into a new language or engaging with a complex puzzle, it is critical to remain mentally alert. Doing so can ensure that their cognitive abilities remain at peak performance levels.
Pump iron for maintaining muscle mass and strength
Strength training is not only beneficial for young people but also for older adults, provided that they have received clearance from their physician. Regular strength training allows older adults to maintain their bone density, flexibility, and muscle mass, reducing their risk of falls and other accidents. According to studies, men in their 60s and 70s who include strength training in their exercise routine can develop muscles that are comparable to those of much younger, inactive men.
Snuff out your cigarette and put down your drink
It is never too late to discontinue smoking or excessive drinking, as quitting these habits can significantly improve one’s health. Even if an individual has struggled with these habits for a prolonged period, cessation can be beneficial. According to research, quitting smoking at the age of 65 can increase one’s lifespan by almost two years and can significantly lower the risk of heart disease and lung cancer. Taking steps to break free from these harmful habits can improve health outcomes.
Therefore, it is advisable to consider quitting smoking or excessive drinking at any age, as the benefits of cessation can significantly affect one’s health. The potential for prolonged lifespan and reduced risk of heart disease and lung cancer highlights the necessity of breaking free from these harmful habits. By doing so, one can enjoy an improved quality of life.
Screening Tests are more of a priority than ever
Regular screening tests are crucial for maintaining good health. While flu shots are commonly discussed, it is essential not to overlook other critical screenings, such as pneumonia and shingles vaccines recommended at ages 65 and 50, respectively. It is essential to keep in touch with your healthcare provider and ensure that you stay up-to-date with screenings for cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes. Moreover, routine colonoscopies are recommended every ten years. And remember to continue to get your routine yearly PSA screening. As men grow older, they are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Prioritize your health in your 60s and beyond by implementing these tips for overall well-being and a fulfilling life.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.