Veterans usually face some challenges when it comes to their health after they retire. It could be due to various factors, including the fact that many veterans are not used to caring for themselves after retirement, and often they do not know how to do so. However, they need to take care of their health after they retire, as this can help improve their quality of life. Veterans find it difficult to maintain or create healthy habits after leaving the military and facing the transition into civilian life. It is why this article will talk about seven ways veterans can live a healthy life post-retirement, enhancing their overall wellness and creating a positive and stable post-military life.
1. Regular Checkups And Screenings
Getting regular checkups and screenings is vital for everyone, but it is especially crucial for veterans. Due to their time in service, many veterans are at an increased risk of developing various health conditions. One such disease is mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Navy veterans have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma since its primary cause is asbestos exposure, commonly used in ships and other navy vessels. It is important for veterans to read up on mesothelioma navy veterans often go through. This will help them know the risks and symptoms to help in early detection. Veterans should also ensure they get their annual vaccines to prevent diseases such as the flu.
2. Eat Healthily
It is crucial for veterans who have been through a lot physically and mentally to eat right. Eating nutritious foods can help them avoid adverse effects after retirement. Some nutritious foods they could eat are healthy fats and whole grains. Healthy fats provide omega-3 fatty acids, which improve memory and cognitive function. They also help maintain the integrity of brain cells and regulate mood. Whole grains are fibre-rich, which helps keep the digestive system smooth and regular. They also help in reducing cholesterol levels. Apart from eating whole grains and healthy fats, they should consume different fruits and vegetables and limit their intake of processed foods, saturated fats, and sugary drinks.
3. Exercise Regularly
Veterans should also exercise regularly. Exercise releases endorphins, which produce feelings of happiness. It is a great way to boost energy levels and improve mood. Being physically active also prevents chronic diseases, such as reducing the risk factors associated with dementia. Regular exercise also helps lower blood pressure, blood sugar, and heart rate. They can opt to exercise by going for walks, jogging, or riding bikes. They could also join a local gym, do yoga, or take up a sport they enjoy playing. The goal is to do anything that keeps them staying fit, active, and healthy.
4. Avoid Drinking Alcohol
Moderately drinking is generally safe, but excessive drinking can lead to severe health problems. Too much alcohol is not good for anyone, especially veterans who may struggle with PTSD, since it worsens its symptoms. Excessive drinking can exacerbate the disorder’s physical and psychological symptoms, making it more difficult for veterans to cope. Not only does alcohol exacerbate PTSD symptoms, but it can also interfere with the medications commonly prescribed to veterans with the disorder. It can make some medicines less effective and cause dangerous side effects. Many veterans also become more addicted to alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with their stress. However, they should avoid it since it will negatively impact their physical and mental health.
5. Prioritize Mental Health
Mental health is also crucial to living a healthy life, yet often overlooked. It is especially true for veterans, who may have a lot of stressors in their lives. However, many do not prioritize their mental health. Some are not aware of the importance of mental health or how it affects their overall well-being. Others do not know how to take care of their mental health or where to get help if they need it. They should ensure they keep their mental health a priority by doing things that make them happy. They should also take care of any underlying mental health conditions, such as PTSD or other psychological disorders, by seeking help from a psychiatrist.
6. Manage Stress
Managing stress is crucial to living a healthy life. Stress can affect physical and mental health, which is why veterans should find healthy ways to manage it to improve their overall well-being. They should identify the triggers causing the stress, and once they find them, they should try to avoid them or learn how to tackle them. They could also try several different stress management techniques and see what works best for them. One such way is through relaxation techniques. These techniques help calm you through deep breathing exercises or yoga. Veterans should ensure that they manage their stress levels by doing anything that relaxes them so that it does not cause illnesses for them in the future.
7. Keep Themselves Busy
After retiring, veterans should ensure that they keep themselves busy and occupied. In doing so, they will not feel alone or bored at home. If they are alone, they are more likely to experience adverse mental health effects like depression and anxiety. Isolation harms mental health, so veterans must stay social after retirement. They can do so by visiting and making plans with their loved ones. If they do not keep busy and are a victim of boredom, it could also lead to risky behaviours. Finding meaning in life is important, but veterans tend to forget the importance of doing things that bring joy to their hearts. Thus, they should do things that keep them busy and happy, allowing their mind and body to relax and rejuvenate.
Conclusion
Leading a healthy lifestyle requires dedication and effort. For veterans, this can be incredibly challenging after retirement. However, there are several things that veterans can do to live a healthy life. They should also get regular checkups to monitor their health and prevent them from acquiring diseases. While it may require some effort, achieving and sustaining a healthy lifestyle improves happiness and well-being for veterans post-retirement.
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