Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 8: “As you age, your body and life change, and so does what you need to stay healthy. Changes in your home life, health, medicines, income and sense of smell and taste may affect your interest in healthy eating and physical activity.”
This was stated by Head, Department of Cardiology in Government Medical College (GMC) and Superspeciality Dr. Sushil Sharma while interacting with inmates of Old Age Home located in Ambphalla area of Jammu city during a day-long camp. He said that healthy eating and regular physical activity are keys to good health at any age.
“They may lower your risk for obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. They may even help you ward off depression and maintain orthopedic health related to bones and muscles,” added Dr. Sushil. He further said that among older people, being underweight is of concern and may be related to not having enough to eat, not eating enough foods that are nutrient dense, or having an illness or disease.
Dr. Sushil said that being overweight or obese is also of concern as extra weight may increase your risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and bone issues. He stressed that eating wisely and being physically active to preserve muscle and bone may help you maintain strength and a healthy weight as you age. “When you get older, your body begins to need fewer calories, but you need just as many nutrients,” he added.
He maintained that healthy older adults should do four types of activities regularly: aerobic (or endurance) exercise and activities to strengthen muscles, improve balance, and increase flexibility. “For any new physical activity, if you have not been active, start slowly and work up to your goal. To track your progress and stay motivated, keep a daily diary of what you do and how long you do it,” said Dr. Sushil.
He further said that many activities give you more than just one benefit. “Water aerobics with weights gives you strengthening and aerobic benefits. Yoga combines balance, flexibility, and strengthening. Choose what you like to do-some physical activity is better than none,” added Dr. Sushil. He took special care of those who were unable to move or walk. Inmates of Old age home and nearby areas were thoroughly checked and free medicines were given as per the requirements.
He maintained that natural physiologic changes in old age will somewhat lessen efficiency of the heart.The team of doctors led by Dr. Sushil which were part of this humane effort included Dr. Mohi Kalsotra, Dr. Dhaneshwar Kapoor and Dr. Anitipal Singh. Paramedics and Volunteers who were part of the team included Kashmiri Lal, Kamal Kishore, Sanjay Sharma, Gaurav Sharma, Pritam kumar, Mohan Krishan ,Aman gupta and Vikas Kumar .
Follow our WhatsApp channel