As we get older, we get settled more in our ways. Reaching the twilight years of our existence is a grand milestone and it is important that we develop simple and effective strategies to maintain the best condition that we can. The ramifications of not doing so can be damaging to ones health and finances. The more things that we can do to prevent ailments, sickness and disease, the better position we are in to lessen their effects later.



I always recommend my patients develop healthy habits and follow simple and effective routines in their lives to enjoy the years and retirement they have worked so hard to earn for the majority of their lives.

Here are my tips for senior wellness:

Taking Your Med’s: Not taking medication correctly, scheduled and/or unsupervised can have serious effects. There is a reason we prescribe medicine to you and make sure to follow your doctor’s guidelines. Tip: Medication pill dispensers can be very handy in helping you keep a track of all of your, or your loved ones medications.

Fall Proof: It is very important for seniors to have their living environment safeguarded against potential accidents. Countless times I have had a patients tell me they, “get dizzy” and couldn’t hold on to something. Making sure that anything that is moveable not be attached to a wall. Try to secure your furniture to the ground so that it can support your weight if you lean on it. Also, be aware of rugs and /or cords that might be in your daily walking area; if you are not paying attention, these might cause you to trip and fall as well. Ask your doctor to have a nurse run a home safety evaluation screening of where you live.

Regular Physical Activity: Being active has been proven to improve overall health. Activities such as walking, stretching, exercise balls, elastic bands, light weights and yoga are a few examples of things that you can do easily and are also cost effective.

Yearly Screenings: Make sure your doctor screens you yearly for the most common cancers such as colon, cervical and breast, which In most cases is a simple procedure that is painless and easy. Detecting something early on can literally be the difference between life and death.

Vaccinations: Prevention of disease and sickness is essential as you get older with your immune system naturally weakening. Help your body by getting things such as yearly flu vaccines, which are essential in the maintenance of health. Your doctor will advise you to proper scheduling depending on season and your medical history.

There you have it! If you can follow and implement these tips, enjoying your senior years will be something that is attainable to you.

Till the next time, Your Dr.!

Jose Alfredo Ortiz MD is a Board certified Family Medicine Physician. Dr. Ortiz provides pediatric, adult and woman’s health as well as geriatric care and preventative screening for all age groups. Dr. Ortiz and his staff are fluent in ENGLISH & SPANISH