“You've spent most of your adult life working hard, often putting in long hours and sacrificing holidays and precious time with loved ones. Now, as you step into retirement, it's time to relish the rewards of your dedication while maintaining your good health,” says Dr Christo Bester, a general practitioner at Netcare Medicross Parow in the Western Cape.
"Retirement should be your golden ticket to savouring life's joys and enjoying the company of family and friends," says Dr Bester. "It's your time to shine, with the help of some valuable insights to keep you feeling vibrant and well."
| Pedalling to wellness: Dr Christo Bester, a general practitioner at Netcare Medicross Parow in the Western Cape pedalling his way to health and fitness! Practising what he preaches, this doctor knows the golden ticket to life's joys is staying active. |
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Dr Bester's comprehensive advice emphasises proactive health management, offering ten golden rules to help you make the most of this exciting new chapter in your life.
1. Prioritising health screenings and check-ups
As you approach retirement, it's crucial to prioritise various health screenings and check-ups. These typically include:
- Cardiovascular health: Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, thyroid, and uric acid levels, as well as your weight and abdominal girth.
- Cancer screenings: Plan for a colonoscopy, gastroscopy, chest X-ray, Pap smears, mammograms (if applicable), and prostate checks.
- Musculoskeletal health: Post-menopausal women, in particular, should keep a close eye on their bone density.
2. Managing chronic conditions
Effectively managing or preventing chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis involves regular check-ups. Annual check-ups will suffice if you're healthy without comorbidities, otherwise, consider twice-yearly visits. Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and quit smoking. Do not cancel your medical aid.
3. Dietary and nutritional adjustments
Good nutrition is imperative for sustaining your health and energy levels during retirement. Focus on reducing salt, fat, and sugar intake and aiming to maintain a healthy weight.
4. Beneficial physical activities
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining mobility and overall health as you age. Consider regular walks—at least three times a week—joining a Run-Walk For Life club, participating in Park Runs every Saturday, cycling, swimming, and practising yoga.
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5. Medication management
Manage your medications safely by opting for combination medications to reduce the number of pills you take. Your doctor can help with this. Switch to generic equivalents to save costs, and again, do not cancel your medical aid.
6. Preventive care
Specific vaccines and preventative measures become increasingly important as you age. Stay up to date with the tetanus vaccine every five years, pneumococcal vaccines (both types), and the annual flu vaccine before winter.
7. The importance of social engagement
Social engagement is vital for your health. Stay active in your community, church, and family to maintain social connections and mental wellbeing.
8. Improving sleep quality
To improve sleep quality, avoid having a television set in your bedroom, limit caffeine after 17:00, reduce your alcohol intake, avoid large meals late at night, and exercise regularly.
9. Emergency preparedness
Ensure you are prepared for healthcare emergencies by updating your mobile phone's health app with your medical aid details, medications, allergies, medical conditions, and the contact information for your spouse, children, GP, cardiologist, and two nearby friends or family members who can assist you. Keep sufficient funds in a savings account for medical emergencies, and never travel without travel insurance.
10. Embrace new hobbies and learning
Retirement is the perfect time to pick up new hobbies and continue learning. Engage in activities that stimulate your mind and bring joy. Whether gardening, painting, learning a new language, or travelling, staying mentally active is just as important as physical activity.
"Retirement is a time to enjoy the fruits of your labour and cherish moments with loved ones," concludes Dr Bester. "Focusing on your health and wellbeing can ensure that these years are vibrant and fulfilling. Remember, your health is your wealth. Take proactive steps to maintain it, and you'll be able to enjoy your golden years fully. Stay active, stay engaged, and most importantly, stay happy.”
Ends
Notes to editors
Experience seamless healthcare access with the Netcare App. Enjoy convenient healthcare anytime, anywhere, with expert medical care at your fingertips. Book appointments, consult with GPs virtually and manage pre-admissions all in one place. From emergency response services with geolocation to seamless admission, discover a new level of care. Download the Netcare App today.
Alternatively, contact Netcare Appointmed on 0860 555 565, Mondays to Fridays, 08:00 to 17:00, to make an appointment with a therapist, doctor or specialist practising at a Netcare hospital, Netcare Medicross or Netcare Akeso facility near you.
For media enquiries, contact MNA at the contact details listed below.
Issued by: MNA on behalf of Netcare Medicross Medical and Dental Centres
For media enquiries contact: Martina Nicholson, Meggan Saville, Estene Lotriet-Vorster
or Clementine Forsthofer
Telephone: (011) 469 3016
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