Mum or Dad might be inspired by wanting the energy to play with grandchildren, enjoy holidays without feeling worn out, or simply keep doing the hobbies they love. Staying active, eating well, and keeping socially connected aren’t about big changes – they’re about protecting independence and boosting confidence
But it’s equally important for carers to look after their own wellbeing; when carers stay strong and resilient, they can provide better support and enjoy life alongside those they care for.
To help you navigate your loved ones’ health care needs – and your own – we’ve put together our top 10 tips for keeping healthy in old age.
Our guide to keeping healthy in old age
Doctor’s appointments, dentists, chiropodists, hearing and eyesight checks; the list goes on. Keeping healthy in old age is important whether it be for regular well-being and lifestyle care or for chronic illnesses and serious health issues.
People who had good health habits when they were younger tend to stay relatively healthy. But it is never too late. Good health habits can make a difference even to elderly people who are prone to illness or have not made their health a priority in the past.
We’ve formulated this guide from personal experience and spoke to many people who battle with keeping health in old age. We’ve formulated our top 10 musts to keep healthy.
1. Take advantage of regular health checks
The NHS offers everyone aged 40 to 74 a full health check every five years, aimed at reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and some types of dementia. Most surgeries offer an annual check-up for all patients over 75.
If you’re aged over 65, you’ll also be told about symptoms of dementia to look out for, as some types of dementia have the same risk factors as these conditions. You can also be given details of local services that help with dementia.
2. Focus on prevention
The NHS offers a full programme of screening for a wide range of diseases and conditions, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, cholesterol, heart disease. The screening offered depends on age, health and family history. They also offer annual flu and pneumonia vaccinations.
3. Keep up with medication
If possible, accompany your elderly relative to their GP regularly to review their medication. Ask questions about possible drug interactions, and take note of any new symptoms (drowsiness, allergic reactions, loss of appetite and others) after starting or changing medications.
How to request a review
- Contact your GP practice: This is the most common route. You can often book through the NHS App, by calling reception, or using online forms if your surgery offers them.
- Ask your pharmacist: Your community pharmacist can also help and may offer a "Medicines Use Review" (MUR) or guide you on next steps.
- Respond to reminders: Your surgery might text or email you when your review is due.
Ensure that drugs are being dispensed in a way which makes it easy to take them regularly (using daily Dosette boxes, for example) – and for you to monitor if necessary. Also, make sure to get the right medicines and avoid substance abuse, no matter what!
4. Visit the dentist every six months
The risk for cavities goes up with age. Plus, many mouth infections can be linked to serious health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke. So elderly people should visit the dentist regularly for check-ups.
You might have to contact a few different practices to find one with availability, as some dentists have a waiting list for NHS appointments and some might not be able to take on new NHS patients at all.
If you’re on certain benefits you can receive free NHS dental treatment or you might be eligible for help through the NHS Low Income Scheme.
5. Screen for eyesight changes
Older people should have an eye test and get their prescription checked every year for changes, as well as have their eyes screened for health issues such as glaucoma. Having the right pair of glasses can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
If someone drives, it’s particularly important to get tested regularly as age-related changes can affect eyesight quite dramatically.
The ophthalmologist will also be able to spot signs of cataracts developing and will advise and refer for cataract surgery if necessary.
6. Remember mental health
Good health isn’t only about the body; it’s just as important to care for the mind. Mum or Dad may sometimes feel low, anxious, or withdrawn, and these changes can be easy to overlook. Paying attention to signs such as losing interest in favourite activities, struggling with sleep, or finding it hard to stay connected with others can help spot when extra support might be needed. Talking openly, reaching out to friends or family, and seeking professional advice are all positive steps.
Research shows that mental stimulation helps to ward off a decline in mental health. Crossword puzzles, quizzes on the TV, books and radio plays and discussions, are just a few of the ways you can encourage them to stay mentally active and engaged with the world.
Technology today can be a gentle companion as well as a practical tool. Simple apps can remind Mum or Dad to take medication or keep track of sleep, while video calls and online groups help them stay connected with friends and family even from home. Relaxation and mindfulness apps can guide breathing or meditation, offering calm moments during the day. And if signs of low mood or anxiety appear, many services now make it easier to reach professional help online, without the worry of travel or waiting rooms.
7. Keep moving
Exercise not only increases energy but improves memory and alleviates depression. Short strolls, long walks or an exercise programme approved by a GP, can keep elderly people healthier longer. Even better, find an exercise class or a local walking group. It’s so much easier to keep motivated in the company of other people.
Speak to a GP first is someone hasn’t exercised for some time, or if there are medical conditions or concerns. Make sure the activity and its intensity are appropriate for the person’s level of fitness.
Some ideas to keep healthy (and sociable) could be:
- Walking the dog
- Gardening
- Days out with friends
- Exercises classes
- Gym membership or you can opt the home gym
- Swimming
- Simply having a dance round the kitchen while the kettle’s boiling!
The NHS has a useful set of physical activity guidelines for older adults who may not have been very active for a while.
8. Eat healthily
The digestive system slows down with age, so high-fibre fruits, vegetables and whole grains are as important as ever. Because elderly people are prone to dehydration, they should drink plenty of water to stay energised and sharp. Have a look at this article on nutrition and hydration.
9. Get some quality sleep
Insomnia and frequent waking in the night are common among elderly people. There is nothing wrong with a nap in the afternoon to catch up on some sleep, but it’s important to ensure the bedroom is a calm, quiet and comfortable place for them to get as much sleep as they need.
Short naps can be refreshing, but long or late naps may interfere with nighttime sleep.
Persistent insomnia, frequent waking, or feeling tired every day are not “just part of aging”. Talking to a doctor can uncover underlying issues.
10. Stay sociable
Time spent with friends, children and grandchildren helps elderly people feel connected, especially if they have mobility issues. And those visits can make elderly people feel more upbeat and laugh, which is the best medicine at any age.
If possible, help your elderly relative keep up with technology so that they can stay in touch with family and friends even if visits aren’t easy to arrange.
Befriending Services
Age UK and partner charity The Silver Line offer free telephone friendship services offering a chat with someone over the phone, all from the comfort of home, whether it’s a regular call, or just the chance to talk when the need strikes.
Face-to-face befriending services are available at many local Age UKs. They will often involve a volunteer befriender visiting an older person in their home, perhaps for a cup of tea and a chat, or accompanying them to an activity (such as a trip to a cafe or the theatre). In some cases, a volunteer may accompany the older person to occasional hospital or doctor’s appointments.
You might also like to read about keeping elderly parents active, and ensuring they are eating and drinking enough.
