Many veterans find it challenging to maintain mental and physical well-being as they age. The demanding lifestyle of military service leaves most veterans with issues that persist for the rest of their lives. These include physical health problems like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and TBIs. At the same time, others may be stress-related and present as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders.
Asbestos Exposure: A Health Concern for Veterans
Asbestos exposure has been a significant concern for veterans, particularly US Navy Seals. This is because asbestos was an integral component of the raw material used to construct ships and shipyards. According to the ATSDR (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry), around 4.3 million workers were exposed to asbestos in the United States between 1930 and 1980. The unfortunate result of this unregulated exposure has led to mesothelioma. Due to the 20-50 years latency period of the disease, symptoms may not appear for decades after the exposure. In 2019 alone, there were 2,500 new mesothelioma cases in the US, with a 5-year survival rate of only 10%. This renders it crucial for veterans to be vigilant about their health and seek appropriate legal assistance. Mesothelioma lawyers have a proven track record of success in representing clients affected by asbestos exposure. Their past legal wins have amounted to over $30 billion in compensation for victims. One law firm that stands out is Mesothelioma Hope, which has been representing mesothelioma victims for over 30 years. The firm offers free-of-charge consultations, contingency-based fees, and easy access to top medical experts to help clients navigate the legal process. If you or someone around you has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, contacting a lawyer with a history of past legal wins like Mesothelioma Hope can make all the difference to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Do not hesitate to reach out for help!
How to take care of your health as a veteran?
Here are several ways to prioritize your physical and mental health to ensure a well-rounded and happy life.
Prioritize Mental Health
First and foremost, put your mental health first. It is true that the way you think and perceive the world around you has a substantial impact on your overall well-being. This is of particular importance if you are a veteran.
Make sure to incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Cultivate hobbies and engage in creative activities to improve mental health and resilience.
Additionally, if you find yourself stuck in the memory of a psychologically detrimental past event, do not be afraid to seek expert health. Joining a support group is also a good idea. Talking to other people who have been through similar experiences may be more beneficial than you might think. You must also maintain open communication with your loved ones about things that might be bothering you.
Stay Physically Active
Regular physical activity is important for maintaining health and mobility in veterans as they age. Make a habit of engaging in low-impact exercises like swimming, yoga, or something as simple as an early morning walk. This can provide a multitude of benefits, from enhancing mood and promoting weight management to improving cardiovascular health. Strength and core training and balance exercises are also good ways of maintaining muscle mass and reducing the risk of falls.
Participate in group exercise classes or join local sports clubs, as social interaction can help you stay motivated.
Staying physically active is also important and medically recommended for managing chronic pain and maintaining independence regarding health-related issues. It is, however, important that you consult with your healthcare physician or physiotherapist to develop a personalized exercise plan that considers your unique health concerns.
Consume a Balanced Diet
A nutritious diet is undoubtedly the most important aspect of maintaining good health. A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports their physical and cognitive health while actively preventing chronic diseases.
Hydration is equally important as staying properly hydrated promotes cognitive function and digestion. Be mindful of portion sizes on your plate, and avoid eating more than your appetite. Reducing the consumption of inorganic and processed foods since the added sugars in these can be detrimental to your health. Consult with a dietitian or nutritionist to create a personalized meal plan to meet your body’s nutrition needs.
Additionally, incorporate functional foods, such as those rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, to support overall wellness.
Prioritize Sleep and Rest
Receiving adequate sleep and rest becomes more crucial as you age. Sleep deprivation can result in symptoms like irritability, restlessness, reduced alertness and concentration, poor memory, and a short attention span. In this way, a lack of enough sleep can affect your day in more ways than some. Try to implement healthy sleep habits according to The Sleep Foundation’s guidelines to elevate energy levels, mood, and cognitive function.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, or other sleep disorders, do not hesitate to seek professional help for proper diagnosis and treatment. This way, you can find the peace you have been lacking.
Stay Socially Connected
The importance of social connections for health cannot be overstated. Humans are innately social creatures, and interpersonal relationships are vital in maintaining health and general well-being. Social connections create a foundation for emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness, and help alleviate the negative effects of stress. Research has shown that people with strong social networks have better mental health and are at a lower risk of premature death.
As an aging veteran, you can reap benefits from joining veteran-specific organizations, participating in community events, and seeking volunteer opportunities to establish and nourish meaningful relationships.
Navigating the Healthcare System as a Veteran
As unfortunate as it sounds, with increasing age comes ailment. Therefore, you must learn to navigate the complex healthcare system to access your required care. Understanding the healthcare system, managing healthcare costs, and advocating for your health are all essential skills you need to acquire to ensure that you receive appropriate care and support.
It might be a good idea to create a comprehensive list of medications and medical history every time you visit a doctor. This will allow you to communicate effectively with healthcare providers. Try to be proactive and ask any health-related questions you might have during medical appointments to fully understand your treatment options and stay in control of your healthcare decisions.
It is imperative that you follow recommended screening guidelines and stay up-to-date on vaccinations to protect yourself from preventable illnesses.
Conclusion
Aging veterans have made tremendous sacrifices for their country, and it is the collective responsibility of the government and society to ensure that they have the right resources and support to maintain their health and well-being. This is why there are special laws and regulations in place to allow veterans unhindered access to the help they might need to honor their service and dedication to the nation.
If you are a veteran, follow these tips and seek help if you need assistance maintaining and balancing your health. Take charge of your body, and attract the quality of life you deserve.
