Tips to Help You Age Gracefully
By Paul Rothbart
It's universal and no one has yet found a way to avoid it. We are all aging, every minute of every day throughout our lives. Gray hair, wrinkles, a body that no longer functions like it once did. Experience has hopefully made us wiser, but even the mind can slow. Aging is going to happen, but it can be a smooth transition to just another phase of life. The idea is not to look and act as we did in our youth, but rather remain mentally and physically healthy enough to enjoy as good a quality of life as ever. It just requires some extra care. Here are some tips to aging gracefully.
Skin Care
Skin is often neglected by people of any age. But as the largest organ in the body, it is vital to take good care of it. Skin loses elasticity as we age, causing wrinkles. A good skin care routine is important to keep skin healthy. Protection from the sun is one of the best things you can do to keep skin healthy. Wear sunscreen, even in the colder months. The sun can cause damage regardless of the air temperature. Wearing hats and protective clothing also guards against sun damage. Hydration is very important to the skin. Drink sufficient quantities of water each day. It's also a good idea to see a dermatologist once a year. Skin cancer is nothing to take lightly. Keep an eye out for blemishes or little lesions that don't heal.
Diet and Exercise
Diet and exercise are always important, especially for the older crowd. It's important to eat well. Lean proteins, fresh fruit and vegetables, and whole grains are key foods to have in your diet. Avoid fats in meat or dairy. Use supplements if necessary and go easy on the salt. Too much sodium can raise blood pressure. Exercise is also essential to older adults. Regular cardiovascular exercise such as walking, running, or swimming is very good for the aging body. Engage in your favorite form 4-5 times per week. Muscle-building exercises are all good for overall health.
Mental Health
Mental health is always important, and especially so for older adults. Depression is common when the changes caused by aging affects our lives in ways we perceive as negative. Accepting your current age and even embracing it is much better than bemoaning the fact that you are no longer young. Be proud of your life experience and share it with younger family and friends. Keeping an active mind is also important. Engage in hobbies you love. Puzzles, games, and singing and playing music are helpful to maintaining a good mood and keeping the mind sharp. Socializing with family and friends can also keep us happy and the mind functioning well.
Getting old is inevitable, but it's not tragic. Embrace your age, care for your body, and stay active physically and mentally. Aging gracefully is not that difficult if you take the right steps.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gahanna, Ohio