By the time you reach 50, you have seen and done a lot of things. Surely you have learned a lot along the way. Believe it or not, there are some things you may not be aware of. Here are 10 pieces of information you may not know. If you know it all, share it.
We are all looking for things to do that can make us feel good. Doing good things for others can always make you feel good. It’s easy to find volunteer opportunities anywhere in the U.S. by searching volunteermatch.org. Simply put in your zip code or state and you’ll be given lots to choose from.
At this age, we are generally putting more attention on our physical health than perhaps we did in the past. Let’s not forget “the mind, body, spirit connection.” There are lots of resources online that can point you in the right direction.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease are two of the most feared diseases. There is lots of information to support prevention, however, the easiest may be here…https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/research_progress/prevention.
As you get older, your hips and shoulders may hurt while you sleep, which could make you feel exhausted. A memory foam mattress topper is a game-changer and can be relatively inexpensive.
There has been some confusion around the necessity of breast self-exams and routine pelvic exams. The jury vote is in and yes, age does not prevent us from having problems in those areas, so keep having them checked.
I know you know this, but it bears repeating again and again. Sleep is one of your body’s best friends. It affects almost every part of our bodies…brain, heart, skin, weight, you name it. So get your 7-9 hours in nightly.
We are all aware that with menopause comes vaginal dryness and possible painful intercourse. I discussed several solutions in my Blog posted 8/24/21 titled “The Best Sex Ever!” If you missed it, scroll down.
Did you know that unsweetened almond milk is much lower in calories, sugar and saturated fat yet has more calcium than whole cow’s milk? It is also high in vitamin A and potassium. One cup contains 30 calories and 45% of your daily calcium. If you’re allergic to nuts, oat milk is another alternative.
You may need to make end-of-life decisions for a relative, partner, or yourself at some point. Having worked in hospice for several years, my advice to you is don’t put it off. Do it while you are healthy and can make educated choices. If you do not have Medical Advance Directives in place for yourself or a loved one, handle that business. You won’t regret it when that inevitable time comes, but you will regret it if that time comes and you don’t have it. If you don’t know where to start, five wishes.org is a good and simple resource.
Remember, it’s never too late! That applies to most things. It’s never too late to develop healthy habits; start a new career (I was already in my 60’s when I began my career as a Licensed Hearing Provider); go back to school; get in shape; begin a new relationship; you name it. The world is your oyster!
Live fully now!