What should you expect when you’re in your 50s
Your immune system
It may take longer to hunt down viruses and other external dangers. It’s also more prone to accidentally attack itself. Furthermore, your body no longer produces as many “fighter” cells to battle infections as it once did. You’re more likely to get sick with the flu, pneumonia, or tetanus as a result of all of this, so make sure you’re up to date on your vaccines.
Brain health
You’ll have more brain function in your 50s than you did when you were 25. While it may drop slightly around the age of 55, don’t get too worked up about it. Some specialists feel that anticipating mental slowdown as you become older may actually cause it. A Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive and canola oils is one method to help protect your brain capacity (and memory).
Mental health
Nearly 95% of persons aged 50 and up think their lives are “satisfactory” or “very satisfactory.” However, in women, the hormonal shifts associated with menopause might result in mood swings. In addition, illness and heavy alcohol consumption can make you more depressed. Sitting less and moving more is a simple way to improve your mood. If you sit for more than 7 hours a day or don’t exercise, you’re more likely to develop mental health problems.
Your muscles
You begin to lose muscle mass at a faster rate beyond the age of 50. Physical strength can deteriorate as well. Lifting weights or doing strength training activities like lunges and squats 2 to 3 times a week is the best approach to arrest this downward spiral. You’ll not only gain more lean muscle mass, but you’ll also enhance your balance, which will come in handy as you age.
Your bones
Your body replaces worn-down bone cells with new, stronger ones while you’re younger. You have more broken-down bone cells than can be regenerated by the time you’re in your 50s. As a result, your bones naturally weaken. Eat meals abundant in calcium and vitamin D to keep them healthy. Hiking and lifting weights are examples of weight-bearing and resistance workouts that can help your bones stay strong.
Joints
The cartilage and tissue that cushion your joints diminish with age, and you’ll notice the impacts in your 50s. (Men are more likely to notice it.) Start with your posture to avoid joint pain and arthritis. You put pressure on your joints when you slouch. Also, maintain track of your weight, as excess pounds might put strain on your joints. Drink plenty of water as well. Your body draws fluid from joint tissue when you’re thirsty.
Your skin
Any sun damage you suffered as a carefree adolescent will now show. You may notice age spots and need to be on the lookout for indicators of skin cancer. It’s not too late to start protecting your skin if you didn’t when you were younger. Every day, use a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF and have a skin cancer check once a year. Your skin may likely feel drier and more easily irritated as well. It may be beneficial to use an unscented moisturizer (rather than lotion).
Your hair
Hair might start to thin and recede around the age of 50, especially for men. Depending on your ethnic group and family history, it will most likely become gray as well. It’s natural to be self-conscious about how “aged” your hair seems, but you can change that by coloring it. You could also discuss medications or hair transplant surgery with your doctor.
Your heart
When you reach your 50s, your odds of having a heart attack increase. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days to help keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. (Even short walks are acceptable.) Maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure, and if you haven’t already quit smoking, now is the time to do so. Smoking cigarette is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease.
Health Screenings
Yes, your risk of developing health problems increases as you get older, but certain tests can detect early signals of illness. A colonoscopy will almost certainly be performed to screen for colon cancer. Women should get yearly mammograms and a Pap smear every three years, while males should have prostate and testicular cancer screenings every three years. Inform your doctor if a disease runs in your family. They may also want you to take further exams.
Your vision
Because the lenses inside your eyes stiffen as you get older, you may have to squint to view your phone. They can’t adjust from a distance focus to an up-close perspective as rapidly as they used to. You might need new glasses (such “readers” that you can get without a prescription) or a new eyesight prescription. As you get older, your vision will deteriorate, so schedule regular eye checkups.
