Staying on top of your physical and mental wellbeing becomes more and more important the older you get. By implementing these seven strategies, you can keep yourself healthy and in great shape throughout your seventies.

1. Know your numbers
It’s incredibly important to keep a close eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, so make sure to schedule an annual check of all three to track your risk of diabetes or heart disease. And, if you experience any symptoms ahead of your appointment, get yourself checked out right away. It’s also advisable to get your eyesight tested regularly, have a flu jab every winter and, if you haven’t already done so, get vaccinated against shingles.

2. Prevent falls
Falls become more frequent as we grow older and can cause serious breaks and injuries, so it’s important to take steps to avoid them at all costs. Here are a few pointers to help keep you walking tall:

• Exercise regularly – it’s good for your balance and co-ordination.
• Wear shoes that are sturdy, have good grip and fit well.
• Put up handrails in or near your bath or shower and next to the toilet.
• Place rugs or loose carpets on a non-slip mat.
• Keep the things you use often within easy reach.
• Make sure your home is well lit so that you don’t stumble.
• Keep the high traffic areas in your home clutter-free.

3. Keep your brain busy
Your mental health is just as important in later life as your physical wellbeing and card games and hobbies like reading, yoga and learning a new language are an excellent way to improve memory and boost your brain power. The Lifestyle Centres at Evergreen Lifestyle Villages offer residents a comfortable, well-designed space to meet for regular card games, or to find a club or group to join.

4. Eat more fruit and veg
Eating fruit and vegetables is key to good nutrition but getting enough into your daily diet is not always easy, especially if you’re only cooking for one. Fortunately, there are plenty of quick, hassle-free ways to up your daily intake. You’ll find some great ideas here.

5. Improve your sleep patterns
The idea that you need less sleep as you get older is nothing more than a myth. The fact is, you should be getting a good 7–9 hours each night. This is not always possible, however, as older people often find it harder to fall asleep, wake up more during the night and spend less time in REM sleep. To help your body get the rest it needs, aim to get up at the same time each morning, avoid long naps during the day, and switch off your screens an hour before bedtime.

6. Keep active
There are several excellent reasons to exercise in your golden years. Not only does it help prevent falls by improving your strength, balance and co-ordination, it can also help lower your risk of having a heart attack or stroke or developing dementia, and even add a few extra years to your life.

7. Find a purpose
It’s important as you enter retirement to find a new purpose in life. Whether it’s your grandchildren, charity work or a hobby you love, find something that gives you a reason to wake up excited about the day rather than worrying about how you’re going to fill the hours.