Maintaining physical health is important to healthy aging. Practicing healthy habits even as you grow older can be rewarding in the long run. Our health care center in Miami FL, Aztek Nursing Registry, Inc., has come up with this list so you can live a longer and happier life.

• Quit Smoking.

  It’s never too late to stop smoking. Smoking can cause serious health problems for anyone, but the health burden is particularly great for older adults. When you quit smoking, your taste and smell will be intensified since smoking dulls these senses. You will also regain the normal function of your lungs, meaning lesser coughing.

• Keep Active.

  Exercise does magic to anyone. It is the key to healthy aging. It helps boost energy, maintain your independence, and manage symptoms of illness or pain. Not only is it good for your body, it is also good for your mind, mood and memory.

• Eat well.

  Eating a well-balanced diet is an important part of staying healthy as you age. Get more high-quality protein your diet to improve your mood, boost your resistance to stress, anxiety and depression. Cut down on sugar and refined carbs to avoid mood swings and wreck any healthy diet.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

  As we age, our metabolism slows down, muscle mass begin to decrease and fat begins to replace lean muscle mass. To maintain a healthy weight, find the right combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise.

• Prevent falls.

  Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. Make an appointment with your doctor to evaluate your muscle strength, balance and gait. Wear properly fitting, sturdy shoes with nonskid soles. Remove any home hazards and use assistive devices like canes or walkers to keep you steady.

• Manage stress.

  As we grow older, the immune system’s defense mechanisms become impaired. Stress management has been associated with increased health and well-being. Effective methods of managing stress include meditation, solving cognitive puzzles and doing yoga.

• Stay up-to-date on immunizations and health screenings.

  Only one in three adults is getting all recommended health screening measures. Older adults can live stronger and longer by making sure they get all the scheduled health screenings recommended by their doctor. Immunizations can also prevent significant illnesses and diseases.