How Seniors Can Quit Smoking

The dangers of smoking are well established for seniors. However, it is hard to quit a habit that may have lasted for years. Currently, it is recommended for seniors to use a variety of strategies to quit that will all work together to ensure their success. As you or your loved one embark upon a smoking cessation program, use these methods to make this time your last.

Get Serious About the Health Implications

Seniors who have smoked for many years sometimes dismiss the damage that has been accumulating in their body. While it may not be possible to see your lungs or heart, it may be sobering to discover that smoking is a potential cause of your high blood pressure or shortness of breath. Talk to your physician about your smoking habit, and ask them to remind you of the positive benefits of quitting. Depending upon your health and lifestyle, a doctor may be able to recommend medications or counseling that will help you quit.

Add Up the Financial Damage

After retirement, living on a fixed budget is quitepretty normal. Today, tobacco prices have risen exponentially compared to when you first started smoking, and it is quite disturbing to realize how much you spend on your habit. Add up the cost of your tobacco for a month, and think about better ways that money could be spent. Then, start a savings jar and set aside the cash you save by avoiding buying a pack of cigarettes.

Cultivate Healthy Habits

Ending an addiction to smoking leaves you with a lot of time to fill. Curb cravings by having a list of healthier activities that you can do to keep your mind occupied for at least five to 10 minutes. For example, you could get a manicure or practice that golf swing. It is also helpful to do things you wouldn’t be able to do while smoking such as go for a jog or brush your teeth.

Reach Out to Others for Support

No one should try to stop smoking alone. Reach out to your family members and caregivers so that they know what you are going through. Then, ask them to help you during times when you want to smoke the most. For instance, you could ask your caregiver to stop by for lunch or help you go for a walk if you like to smoke after dinner.

Quitting smoking is a challenge, but you truly can achieve anything you set your mind to do. Just make sure to implement multiple strategies for helping you accomplish your goal. Then, that first smoke-free day will turn into many weeks of enjoying breathing freely once again.

An article by the leadingMesa home care (We Are Changing the Way the World Ages).

John Snow is a freelence writer working for over 5 years. He loves to write on health, fitness, healthy lifestyle and food topics. He currently working for Home care Assistance of Mesa.