Healthy Aging Month
September is healthy aging month. This annual observance is designed to focused national attention on the positive aspects of growing older.
Due to advances in science and technology, people are now living longer and the United States is on the brink of an longevity revolution. By 2030, the number of older Americans will have more than doubled to 70 million, or 1 in 5 Americans.
Many individuals view aging with both optimism and worry. This outlook is not
necessary as the keys to enjoying later life are understanding and planning of the future.
Those that begin to make plans for the second half of life while they are still younger may find the future easier. However, it is never too late to begin preparing for later in life.
Successful aging and quality of life issues in later years depends on more than how much money an individual has in the bank. Although this is certainly an important consideration, issues like personal health and well being, lifestyle issues, housing, leisure activities, and social relationships are of paramount importance.
Following are some suggestions for those wishing to make healthy aging, a year round event.
• Getting older as human beings can be likened to that of an automobile that is aging.
When properly cared for earlier in life, both have increased life expectancy and may operate quite well later in life. The aging process should be considered however in the care and maintenance of both. As both age, parts may need to be replaced and/or repaired, increased routine maintenance may be required and a tolerance for aches and pains/squeaks and rattles are necessary. Additionally, prudent expectations such as not trying to run as fast, lift as much, drive as fast or carry as heavy a load as is helpful. In general, monitor more closely how much high performance and speed is
expected in humans and automobiles with age and include moderation as a virtue.
• Research has clearly demonstrated that exercise can positively influence many aspects of aging including mental fitness. This includes memory, emotional well- being, self-esteem and optimism. Individuals who maintain their highest level of physical fitness are much more likely to be perceived as alert, sharp, enthusiastic and alive by their friends and family.
• Spiritual and/or philosophical mechanisms also enable seniors to maintain a healthy perspective between elements of their, present, and future. For example, memories and experiences from the past can provide wisdom and knowledge not available to younger cohorts.
• Stress management techniques are important in healthy aging. Many physical ailments can be prevented or greatly reduced by maintaining a lifestyle free from tension and anxiety. Many diseases of old age result from a breakdown in the immunological system resulting from too much stress. Exercise and varying the daily routine can relieve stress and boredom.
Maintaining self-reliance and happy and healthy perspective on life can be accomplished as the aging process continues, but it doesn’t take some understanding and practice of the above principles.
