This feature was written by Studio MSP writers. While some of our advertisers were sourced, no advertiser paid to be included.
When you really think about it, staying vital and vibrant in your 70s isn’t much different than it is in your 30s or 40s. Sure, your life experiences may be totally different, but the building blocks of health remain (mostly) the same from decade to decade. Take on your 70s by leaning on foundational wellness tips similar to those you learned in your younger years.
1. Squeeze in a midday nap.
Enjoy the benefits of a midafternoon nap just like you did in college. Some studies have shown that a quick shut-eye session can help improve cognitive performance in older adults, as well as refresh energy and alertness. Just don’t hit the snooze; napping too long, too often can mess with your circadian rhythms and may be a sign of dementia.
2. Watch out for UTIs.
The older you get, the weaker your bladder muscles become. If you’re visiting the bathroom more frequently or noticing pain, stinging, or burning when you urinate, give your doctor a call. UTIs can quickly become serious, especially for older adults in nursing homes or people dealing with dementia.
3. Practice safe sex.
Intimacy shouldn’t stop in your 70s! Sure, some aspects of sex may not work or feel quite like they used to, but you can have a fulfilling and satisfying sex life regardless of age. STDs don’t care how old you are; if you’re dating again, make sure to use protection with new partners.
Hot Topic to Discuss
+ Forgetting minor tasks or dates or where you put your phone may not be a cause for concern (we’re all guilty of that!), but if memory loss starts to interfere with your daily life, it’s time to take notice and address it with a professional.
Don’t-Skip Screenings
- Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes screening every three years
- Colorectal cancer screening every 10 years until age 75
- Lung cancer screening every year, if you are/were a smoker
- Blood pressure screening every year
- Cholesterol test every five years
- Eye exam every year, beginning at age 65
- Osteoporosis screening starting at age 65 for women
- Fall-prevention screening every year
- Prostate cancer test every two years until age 75
Vital Vaccinations
- Influenza (IIV4, RIV4, or LAIV4) every year
- MMR once, if not previously administered
- Pneumococcal (pneumonia) (PPSV23, PCV13) two doses, one year apart
- COVID-19 (Pfizer, Moderna) one booster shot at least two months after your last dose or booster
DYK?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), healthy seniors should aim for 7,000–10,000 steps per day. That adds up to about three-ish miles.
Time to revisit your daily scripts. The National Institute on Aging says that more than one-third of prescription drugs used in the U.S. are taken by older adults. Keep a running count of all the pills you take (including OTC and supplements!), along with the dosage and frequency, and have your health care team cross-check your list.
Read more from our Annual Health Guide in the November issue of Mpls.St.Paul Magazine or here.