I've been putting off doing a post like this for a few years now, so it's time to face the fact that I may be getting a little old at the age of 77.😒 Growing old gracefully is something devoutly to be desired, so here we go!
Today the average duration of human life in the United States is about 76.5 years or there about for women and a little less for men. Conservative experts believe that man is built to last about 100 years and that medical advances and more healthful lifestyle habits could bring this about within a generation or two.
So, what good is it to add years to life if we do not add life to your years? In fact, unless people learn to enjoy life and to grow old gracefully, the extra years may be an additional burden.
From 18 to 30 years is roughly the period of highest physical and mental vigor. The experiences we accumulate from the day we are born help us to conserve and use our physical and mental abilities more wisely so that for some time after 30 years we can perform increasingly well despite slowly slipping vigor. After age 50 the increasing accumulation of experience is no longer able to offset the now more rapid energy and therefore aging begins to assert itself noticeably and in many ways.
Some things may come about gradually such as people who have not used eyeglasses before may at some time in their forties need them for reading, and in their fifties they usually need bifocals.
Also in the forties, people are likely to put on weight because there is a general slowdown in the oxidation rate of the aging body tissue. Also, we tend to do less strenuous work without a reduction in the amount of food consumed.
And in the fifties, there is likely to be some loss of hearing. Usually, the high-pitched tomes go first, so words with the sounds of F, S, and TH are confused. A hearing aid may be needed in some cases. I get these hearing aid ads in the mail at least twice a month as an unwanted reminder.
Aging is generally accompanied by a loss in physical and mental flexibility. This is noticed in a tendency to become stiff in the joints; in slower comeback after a strenuous trip, excessive "nightlife," or hard work; in slower healing of wounds, sore muscles, and sprains; in the slower recovery of pep after an illness; and in greater difficulty to adjust to new people, new places, and new ideas.
Men, especially, will notice a loss of muscular strength. There will be increased unsteadiness and delicate muscle movements will be more clumsy and the stride in waking will become shorter. The conclusion now is that the performance and ability of the elderly have long been underestimated and can be greatly improved by a proper diet, sleep, and exercise along with rest and relaxation.
Many elderly people tend to lose their joy and will to live and chronic worriers may mope around and withdraw. Medical authorities now say that laughter is one of the best medicines for the elderly. You can always keep your sense of humor tuned up by surrounding yourself with pleasant and interesting people. Just act your age and don't be afraid to laugh at yourself even when no one else is around.
Now that we all know the role that physical activity plays in our lives, remember to do something physical every day. The joints must be used or quite simply they will tighten with age creating that stooped worn-out appearance we so often associate with getting old. Keep yourself flexible and fit in an exercise program that is consistent with your ability. ratio or two.
- Take Stock:
- Regular checkups with your doctor, dentist, and eye doctor are essential. These visits can help identify health issues early or even before they start.
- Tests may include checking cholesterol levels, blood pressure, cancer screenings, and osteoporosis assessments.
- Eat Whole Foods:
- Focus on a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and low-fat dairy.
- Limit fatty meats, butter, sugar, salt, and processed foods.
- This way of eating has been linked to longevity and protection against heart disease, cancer, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Stay Active:
- Aim for 30 minutes of exercise daily. If that's too much, break it up into shorter strolls.
- Regular exercise helps keep brain cells healthy, improves mood, strengthens bones and muscles, and reduces the risk of various diseases.
- Stay Connected:
- Loneliness can harm health. Make an effort to connect with others, whether through friends, volunteering, or helping someone in need.
- Seniors who feel connected tend to have better overall health and well-being.
- Add Fiber:
- Include fiber-rich foods in your meals and snacks. Fiber supports digestive health and overall well-being.
Here are some tips that you may want to incorporate into your quest to outlast Dorian Gray.
Aging gracefully involves more than just skincare. Here are some tips to help you age well:
- Skin Care: Protect your skin with sunscreen, yearly cancer screenings, and gentle products. Stay hydrated.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity lowers disease risk, improves mood, and maintains mobility. Aim for 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, including muscle and bone strengthening.
- Healthy Diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and unhealthy fats. Limit salt intake.
- Mental Well-Being: Cultivate meaningful relationships, manage stress, and stay positive. Aging gracefully is about living your best life!
Remember, aging well isn't just about physical appearance; it's about feeling good, staying active, and maintaining a positive mindset. 😊🌟
Stay Healthy, Live Long and Prosper
M.N.Curry
