Have you graced the Earth for half a century? Are you ready to enjoy another decade of fun and excitement? Getting older is a time when you can look back at your youth fondly and use those memories to guide you in the years to come. Appreciate the obstacles you overcame and the triumphs you’ve enjoyed.
Every ten years marks a milestone of age, bringing new goals and life changes with it. Turning 50 is no different. What does this decade have in store for you? What can you expect? What should you do to get the most from these years? Start on the right foot. Here are four tips for supporting your lifestyle and wellness.
1. Schedule Your Health Screenings
Many health issues creep up after 50. The National Cancer Institute emphasizes that age is one of the leading risks for cancer development, with a significant increase starting around age 50. Therefore, it’s critical to emphasize prevention and screenings.
For instance, The American Cancer Society notes that at age 50, women should prioritize testing for breast cancer, getting mammograms every year. Check-in with physicians to understand personal risks and continue to monitor with monthly at-home exams. In addition, don’t skip the gynecologist. Make an appointment each year to review how you feel.
Men should put prostate cancer on their radar. Speak with doctors about the illness and get regular exams. In addition, think about supporting various bodily systems and learn about prostate health supplements and essential preventative measures.
Both genders should work with a gastroenterologist to understand more about colorectal cancer. Studies indicate that early detection remains vital in recovery. Talk with the specialist about in-office tests and scheduling a colonoscopy.
2. Prioritize Rest
Most people need 7 to 8 hours of sleep to support your health. This rule doesn’t change at 50, but it may become more challenging to accomplish. WebMD mentions that you might wake up earlier or have your eyes pop open several times during the night with age. In addition, you may find yourself taking far too many evening bathroom breaks. Plus, as you age, you may add more medications that stimulate the mind and body. These circumstances interfere with your rest.
The site recommends several tips to prepare yourself for a solid night’s sleep. First of all, naps feel great in the afternoon, but they may mess up that sleep cycle. If you’re struggling to get the right shuteye, try to push through that midafternoon break. Then, establish a straightforward evening routine. Try a warm bath to help you relax. Skip the nightcap, and minimize water intake at night. If you’re still experiencing too much adrenaline, add exercise to your day.
3. Check In With Your Financial Adviser
Evaluate your financial outlook now. Many people still work at age 50; however, the thought of retirement is dangling out there. You may have visions of quiet, lazier days where you have less to do and can finally catch up on your bucket list. Ensure that you have what you need by seeing if you should adjust your deposits.
Set up a time to sit down with an advisor, allowing the professional to look over your portfolio and budget. Now isn’t the time to get loose with your money. Instead, focus on paying off debt and putting more in your retirement accounts. By taking these actions now, you could set up your 60s more.
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) discusses the tasks to take in the 50s. In addition to reducing loans, the organization recommends thinking about social security, establishing an account and determining when to begin withdrawals. Start to learn more about how the system works and how much you might earn in the future.
4. Evaluate Your Diet
As you age, the body changes, including the digestive system. According to Everyday Health, this system tends to slow down, becoming less flexible and losing strength. You may find your stomach reacts a bit more to different selections, and you could experience reflux more often. In addition, medicines for diabetes and blood pressure may have side effects that aggravate the intestinal lining.
You should take it easy. Healthline.com recommends that after 50, you start avoiding much of the processed and greasy foods of your youth. Skip the cheeseburger, milkshake and fries. It sounds tempting, but it may not feel great later that day. Instead, the site encourages people to choose cleaner selections, such as lean meats, whole grain and fresh fruit. Limit your fat intake, and increase your fiber.
50 isn’t over the hill. It’s the mark of a new start and the chance to get ready for retirement and fun. Schedule your screenings, eat right, sleep well and keep a close eye on your finances. Enjoy the new memories and experiences and support your body to its best.
