Managing the Aging Process

The aging process is not for the faint of heart. As we get older, we feel new aches and pains that are sometimes a symptom of another issue. It may be harder to get out of bed, to walk down the stairs, and even to stay upright. Fortunately, there are ways to combat the effects of aging and “grow old gracefully”.

aging

Getting a Grip on Arthritis

Arthritis is that one disease in which everyone feels like they have reached old age, even when it’s onset in younger folks. It can be debilitating, frustrating, and robs us of the little things that we enjoy. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to treat it and lessen the impact it has on us. There are traditional techniques at the doctor’s office and medications but there are also some alternatives.

Acupuncture and medical massage have become increasingly popular for the treatment of arthritis. Medicare Plan B will cover occupational or physical therapy that will include massage, but acupuncture is still not covered by any Medicare plans. You can use the Medicare plan finder to find out what plans are available in your area and the details on what they will cover.

Keeping Your Balance

As we get older, we lose joint function, muscle strength, reduced vision, slower reaction time, and our inner ear is prone to dysfunction. It’s no wonder older people have a hard time stepping off a curb or climbing a set of stairs. There are plenty of aids available to help us maintain our balance but the number one method is to practice a bit of yoga each day. Not only does it help maintain joint function and muscle strength, it’s simply good for the mind too.

As your body begins to feel better, your mood will improve and you will feel less like you are aging and more like you are living. No matter what age you are at, we encourage everyone to give it a shot. If you are under a doctor’s care, we do recommend you speak with your doctor before taking on a yoga regime. Yoga is not usually covered by Medicare or other insurance plans so consider looking for classes at a community center that is lower in cost or by donation.

Losing the Weight You Will Gain

Weight gain may be one of the more surprising signs of aging. It certainly won’t happen to everyone, since genetics plays a big part in it, but a large number of people are often surprised by the pounds creeping in and the struggle to get it off. This is especially if they were able to drop weight easier in the younger years. Weight gain is harder on the older body when you consider the combination of other issues (loss of joint function and muscle strength in particular) that are at play. It means a higher risk of developing high blood pressure, heart issues, and diabetes.

Visiting with a licensed dietitian for a diet plan that is factoring in your current state of health is a great way to slim down and avoid furthering your health issues. Original Medicare will cover the costs if your physician is taking on the medical diet plan. Medicare B will cover it if your BMI is 30 or higher.

While none of these things sound pleasant, they do happen. It may not happen for a long time or you could already be experiencing issues. No matter where you are in the aging process, tackling it sooner rather than later will be great for your wellbeing.