There are days when it seems that you are full of energy and can go all day, and others when you feel exhausted and can barely convince yourself to get out of the house. An easy explanation for the loss of energy would be to blame your age for this fatigue. While it is true that we won’t have the same energy as when we were 21, it is usually much more than this. It can be related to your diet, to your activity levels and of course, to your mood.
Energy Boost for Elderly Adults
Here’s how seniors can increase energy levels:
- Focus on nutrition. Just as gas is the energy that allows a car to run, the food you eat is the fuel that allows us to stay fueled, too. Often, when we don’t eat properly or put in the wrong fuel, it affects how much energy we are able to have. Eating a well-balanced diet and limiting the amount of junk food you eat has been shown to give you more energy. High energy foods for seniors like spinach, honey, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, bananas and eggs are all great energy boosters that are easy to add to your regular diet. Also, you can gain more energy by swapping in healthier choices like whole grain bread instead of more processed options like white bread.
- Drink water. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to drink plenty of fluids, especially as a senior. It is often noted that, as we get older, it becomes harder for your body to recognize when it needs water. Dehydration is not only unhealthy for you, but can sap you of your strength and slow down your metabolism. Although it is a good target to drink 7-8 glasses of water a day, it is also important to eat foods that have a high water content like fruits and vegetables.
- Exercise. When you are tired, doing exercise is probably the last thing on your mind. As an Older Adult Specialist, I would recommend that exercise should be high on the list if you need energy — because the better shape you are in, the more energy you will have. Also, if you have a condition like arthritis, which can deter you from exercise because of all the aches and pains you may feel, the added benefit of exercise is that it is additionally great at lubricating your joints.
I know there is no magic pill or formula that can give you more energy. However, with a few small life adjustments, we can feel more energetic than we have ever been. Give some of these suggestions a try.
About the Author: Eric Daw is an active aging specialist and the owner of Omni Fitt. Omni Fitt is dedicated to the wellbeing, health and quality of life of people aged 55 and over in Toronto.
