Turning 60 is a big decade. While many people plan to put their work-life behind them and retire, in order to spend more life with themselves. While all of the change can be exciting and scary, there is still no better way to start working on a new you than in this phase of your life. This healthier version of you can be even more focused on being healthy and feeling great. Make your retirement not about resting, but about reaching your maximum health and working toward a long life of health and happiness. 

Besides enjoying your retirement life, reaching such an age can also leave you more vulnerable to something as simple as the flu or common cold that can progress and lead to complications. This includes secondary infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, an ear infection, or a sinus infection. If you have a chronic condition such as asthma or diabetes, a respiratory illness can make these conditions worse. Because of this, it’s important to make healthy choices to strengthen your immune system and reduce the likelihood of illness.

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Improve your diet

You don’t have to change your diet all at once. Try making 1 small change at a time. For example, instead of eating 2 slices of white toast for breakfast, replace 1 of them with a slice of whole-grain bread. If you drink orange juice every day, eat an orange instead for 3 days a week. Eat whole fruit rather than drinking fruit juice. If you like salty snacks, try low-fat popcorn instead of potato chips. There are all sorts of plans out there to help you lose weight, but it’s not just about dropping pounds. The Mediterranean-style diet is great for this age because it is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and fish, and low in meat, sugar and processed foods, all to help your cells function better.

Take supplements as necessary

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Some supplements help support a healthy immune system. Before taking a supplement, always ask your doctor if it’s safe, especially if you’re taking prescription medication. Some supplements they may recommend include calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B6, or vitamin B12. Take supplements or multivitamins as instructed to boost your immune system.

Take care of your mental health

Research has, in fact, shown, that people who take up new hobbies or make strides to move out of their mental comfort zone stay both mentally and physically younger than their years. Try not to get stuck in a physical or mental rut. Switch up your daily routine and workout once in a while and keep your brain engaged by learning new skills: Take up a musical instrument or hobby; audit a class at your local university, or volunteer in your community, for example.

Exercise 

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Diet and exercise are the two most important changes you can make. Even if you’ve never been active, it’s time to get started. A healthy diet and physical activity are good at any age. As you age, these healthy habits strengthen muscles and bones. Strong muscles and bones reduce serious injuries related to falls. When your muscles are strong, activities like getting up from a chair or opening a door are easier.