This year, around 700,000 people will retire in the UK. Are you about to retire or have you done so in the last 12 months?
Retirement is one of those experiences that we talk about, yet it always seems just out of reach. We plan, prepare, and line up all our ducks in a row so, when the time comes, we can enjoy the retirement we imagined. And when it comes, it can be a unique sensation like no other. Some continue to work in some capacity, while others choose to travel or take up new hobbies.
There is one obstacle, however, that can dampen any retirement plans, and that is your personal health. Without good health while in retirement, you may find yourself spending more time in doctors’ offices and resting at home than doing what you planned. The good news is that you can do many things to take care of yourself in retirement and enjoy your life to the fullest.
In the UK, the average age people retire at is 61.5 years. The average life expectancy in the UK is 81. This means that you have 20 years to enjoy retirement. And while there are common health issues that come at that age, there are medical solutions for all of them. From vision loss to hearing loss, modern medicine has allowed for concerns such as these to become less of an issue when you retire. Despite these common ageing issues, there are many ways to stay healthy when you retire to minimise or prevent further complications that can come with ageing in general. Below are 8 ways to stay healthy when you retire.
1.Get Your Shots
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, between 70 and 85 percent of flu-related deaths have occurred in people over 65. 
This means that you need to get your flu vaccine yearly. In addition, speak to your doctor about other vaccines for illnesses such as shingles and types of pneumonia when you retire.
Moreover, washing your hands and taking other common sense steps on a daily basis can prevent the spread of germs. This includes taking the proper vitamins that your doctor recommends. This kind of preventative maintenance can go a long way toward reducing sickness during your retirement and keeping it a happy one.
2. Exercise
The benefits of exercise for people who retire are well documented. 
It can help regulate mood, manage stress, and increase self-esteem. In addition, exercise can prevent disease and help improve the circulation of blood to the extremities. It also helps keep bones strong and improves balance to help lessen the chance of a fall. Scary or vigorous exercise is not needed.
A nice, brisk walk around the mall or neighbourhood is a good start. You will see your cognitive function improve and feel better after moving. Your entire retirement experience will benefit.
3. Eat Well
Eating well in retirement is essential to a happy one. 
The benefits of eating well are well researched and wide reaching. Eating well promotes energy and helps reduce the risk of heart disease. It also helps with weight control, which is important as we age. Being less active and gaining weight at an older age can lead to higher chances of heart-related diseases such as strokes and type 2 diabetes. These can affect retirement plans permanently. Eating well does not have to be complicated.
Try to get a mix of foods from all food groups on your plate at each meal, and start small. Try eliminating or adding one thing at a time. Also, consult your doctor or a trained nutritionist.
4. Play Games
That’s right! Play games. Play card games, board games, crossword puzzles, actual puzzles, and more. 
Playing games helps keep your mind sharp and increases memory retention when you retire. In fact, studies show that increased gameplay and activity can help reduce the risk of dementia quite a bit.
Play solitaire or pick up a piece of paper to try a crossword puzzle. Exercise your brain just like your body. Your retirement plans will be enjoyable because you are focused on gaming.
5. Socialise
According to a senior citizen association, a lack of socialisation as a retiree can have negative impacts on health and mental well-being. 
Book clubs, writing clubs, game clubs, and dances are great ways to get out and socialise.
Not only does it allow you to meet new people and make your retirement more fulfilling, but it also helps you improve the quality of your life. Try Zumba, join the local YMCA, or visit a senior day care to see what activities they offer. The options are endless. This is one of the most important aspects of staying healthy in retirement.
6. Take a Class
This suggestion provides a combination of the benefits listed in the earlier suggestions. 
This suggestion may seem simple, yet taking classes is still relevant. Any kind of class can help you socialise, improve your cognition, and, if it is a physical one, get you to exercise. Learning something new also helps you feel excited and more engaged in your own life. Plus, you may make new friends that become part of your retirement landscape.
7. Drink water
As advised by Dr Hilary Jones, you should drink water first thing in the morning as there are lots of benefits here. It boosts your mood because you’re rehydrating, helps with energy levels and it will also help with weight loss. The doctor highlighted the appetite-suppressing effects of water. “If you have a pint of water when you wake up, you’re less likely to have a fry up or less likely to have so many calories because you feel fuller.” This technique is often employed by dieters who drink water before meals to reduce calorie intake.
8. Limit Your Alcohol Consumption
Regular alcohol consumption affects all areas of your body. It affects your brain, heart, immune system, and pancreas, and impairs your vision and balance. While moderation is fine, such as a glass of wine or beer every so often, heavy consumption is not recommended. The side effects on your physical health and mental well-being can be devastating.
From a fall that injures you to feeling depressed, drinking will dampen your retirement plans and could take you away from them for large amounts of time.
10. Stay Safe
While this may be a consideration many overlook, safety is important when you retire. This does not mean learning karate or carrying a heavy bat. This means prepping your home with emergency alert equipment, making it comfortable to sit in and sleep in with the proper back and neck support, having good lighting, and having a clear and clean floor to avoid accidental slips are all important.
At Telecare24 we want you to enjoy your retirement. We know you have planned carefully and worked hard for this special time in your life. That is why we offer a range of products to help you not only stay safe in retirement but also love it all the while. Contact us today to find out how we can help!
