Senior Living News

There is so much advice out there for people as they age — supplements, diets, exercise plans, anti-aging therapies! You might be interested to know that there are recommendations grounded in science that can help you live not just longer but also a healthier and happier life.  

1. Do what moves you — not only will movement help you live longer, but it reduces your risk for heart disease, helps you get a healthy night’s sleep, decreases depression and pain, better bone strength, and fewer falls. Which type of exercise is the best? The one you’ll do consistently! The easiest for most people: walking 20-30min/day - all you need are your walking shoes and the great outdoors. Any form of exercise is great but if you have to choose just one, something aerobic (meaning it increases your heart rate and makes you breathe faster) is the most healthy.
2. Eat the plants — fruits and veggies have huge nutrients and low calories and tons of fiber to help you feel full. Those nutrients fuel your cells while maintaining a healthy weight. Filling half your plate at each meal with fruits and vegetables is a great way to control your portions.
3. Stay Connected — humans are social beings! Friends, family and social interaction allows us to feel connected and not isolated. Those with a healthy social network not only live longer but also have a happier mental outlook. If your social network could use a little broadening consider your community center, church, and even your doctor’s office as resources. Take a class or join a choir. If you join a walking group its a 2 for 1!
4. Stomp those butts — if you're a smoker the single greatest thing you can do for your health no matter your age is to quit smoking. The average person has to try 7 different times before they quit for good. There are so many different methods to help: nicotine replacement (like gums, patches, or mints), acupuncture, hypnosis, or even medication your doctor can prescribe.

For more specific guidance on your health, schedule some time to talk with your Doctor. They have so much advice to give that is specific to your situation and they so rarely have time to address it all.

About the Author:

Dr. April Goggans attended high school and college here in the Grand Valley before being accepted to the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine and then completed her training as an Osteopathic Family Physician in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Dr. Goggans has always loved the practice of family medicine but disliked the way "the system" made her treat her patients. In residency, she started looking for a way to practice the medicine she loves without having to rush important decisions, reduce a visit to 3 or fewer topics, or provide any less care than a person needs.

In search of this better way, Dr. Goggans found Direct Primary Care. Now she is pleased to offer this personalized, unhurried, and relationship-based primary care to the people of the Grand Valley.