Your immune system is a complex network of cells that defends your body against illness and infection. A strong immune system has always been important to health and longevity, but In the face of a pandemic, many people are exploring the ways they can further protect themselves and strengthen their body’s natural defense. But can you really boost your immune system?

While researchers have yet to scientifically prove the link between lifestyle and immune response, the relationship is intriguing. As we learn more about the effects of diet and stress on the body, appears that certain dietary and healthy-living strategies do have a positive impact on immune function. With many still awaiting the COVID-19 vaccine, making a conscious effort to strengthen your immune system certainly can’t hurt. Here are a few steps you can take to boost your immune system at every age.

For many of us, staying active during the warmer months comes easily. Whether you take morning walks, swim laps, garden, or attend outdoor dance lessons, there seems to be no shortage of physical activities to enjoy. However, as the weather turns cold and the leaves disappear, so do the opportunities for comfortable outdoor recreation.

Although we may enjoy hibernating until spring, the fact remains that physically activity is essential to both physical and mental health, and the National Physical Activity Guidelines advise people to engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. With indoor activities restricted due to COVID-19, older adults are finding more creative ways to stay active. Here are some fun ideas for getting physically active at home while sheltering in place:

Life is filled with challenges. It’s unavoidable. As we grow older, we get better at navigating life’s ebb and flow. However, we occasionally find ourselves in a situation where those challenges seem to pile up; where life throws us one too many curveballs at the same time. In those instances it can be difficult to find your bearings and see the light at the end of the tunnel – difficult but not impossible. With conscious intention, and a few mindset tools in your back pocket, you can practice finding the positive, even during challenging times.

Limiting social contact, avoiding public gatherings, and staying home are essential for reducing exposure to COVID-19. The challenge for many older adults during this pandemic is figuring out how to safely socially distance without socially isolating. Lack of in-person contact is a major risk factor that has been linked with poor physical and mental health, especially in older adults. With so much at stake, proactive steps need to be taken in order to prevent social isolation during quarantine.

Fortunately, in today’s digital age, there are lots of options for connection. Whether you are looking for COVID-friendly ways to celebrate a birthday or options for every day communication, we’ve compiled some creative ideas for older adults who want to stay virtually connected to loved ones during COVID-19.

As COVID-19 cases continue to climb, social distancing remains an important tool for keeping the virus from spreading. While this is an essential step we should all be taking, it is especially important for older adults who are more susceptible to COVID.

But how do we keep ourselves and our loved ones physically healthy without it taking a toll on our mental health?