Matthew Solan

While some people seem genetically predisposed to retain mental sharpness in old age, there are things anyone can do that can help maintain cognitive ability, or perhaps improve it.

Racket sports like tennis are beneficial to health, in part because of the types of movement required, and also because of the social component of playing with others. One of the fastest-growing racket sports particularly among older adults is “pickleball,” which blends tennis, table tennis, and the backyard childhood game of Wiffle ball.

With the variety of speeds and inclines and the pre-programmed terrain patterns included, a treadmill is a flexible piece of exercise equipment that can provide a thorough and varied workout. Because you can control pace and intensity, treadmills are also a good option for people returning to activity following injury or surgery.

Everyone gets tired now and then, but when it happens too often, it may be time to take steps to address the problem. Some health conditions can contribute to fatigue, so it’s worth checking in with your doctor. And some simple lifestyle changes can help boost your energy in less serious cases of fatigue.

Cooking more meals at home is a great way to have more healthy food choices in your diet, and learning skills and techniques will enhance the range of dishes you’ll be able to prepare (and may have other benefits as well). If you need some help with your kitchen skills, classes are usually available through community education centers, cooking schools, and some retail stores.

Kegel exercises have long been considered “for women only,” but older men may be wise to reconsider this point of view. These simple and subtle pelvic floor exercises can can be performed while lying down, sitting, or standing and are known to help with some common unpleasantries that can come with age.

Food intolerances become more common with age, and such problems are not necessarily linked to an allergy or disease. There are ways to pinpoint what is disturbing your digestive system and there are simple steps you can take to ease digestive distress and even continue to enjoy many of the foods you love.

Many older men need hearing aids, but are reluctant to wear them. Because hearing loss is associated with greater risks for certain conditions including depression, anyone who suspects their hearing is deteriorating should have a hearing test. It is important to note that hearing aids make sounds louder, but not clearer. There are other ways to improve communication with or without a hearing aid.

Interacting with animals can be helpful to people dealing with issues like anxiety and depression. Animal-assisted therapy is used in settings such as retirement communities and hospitals, and can be helpful for those affected by traumatic events.

Though sexuality changes with age, this should not hinder older men from being sexually active. It may be helpful for men to reframe how they think about sex, focusing less on the outcome and more on the experience and pleasure of shared intimacy.