MY BODY IS AGING!!
"Aging is not 'lost youth' but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” - Betty Friedan.
Getting older is not easy!!! As a child, I thought all I wanted was to be an adult and not have to take orders from anyone. After becoming an adult, I now know it is not true. There is always someone in life who will tell you what to do.
Fortunately, as I have aged, I have accepted and like who I am. That realization came with many hurts, frustrations, and praises (not everything comes from the negative!). I have matured from the quiet, unsure, awkward, and irritating person I was and have become a confident leader, good friend, and reliable person. I still struggle at times and find myself going backward and experiencing childlike feelings.
My biggest problem with aging is the physical deterioration that takes place. When I was young, I lived in denial that I would grow old normally and did not take great care of myself. I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 20, and I only changed a part of my life. I haphazardly cared for myself, and even though I curbed my eating, I still ate desserts. I did not have a regular exercise routine and allowed myself to gain weight.
Today, we are focusing on physical aging.
Now, I am 62 and have more than my fair share of physical issues. A few months back, I think I wrote about my heart issue and needing an angiogram. The angiogram came out fine, and for the most part, my heart is strong and healthy.
Recently, I had an MRI because I am losing my memory, and dementia runs in my family. My brain looks pretty good EXCEPT for two areas that show that I have had two strokes. The neurologist told me that they are approximately five years old. When I look back, I realize how many times I have fallen in the past five years and broken bones. This last week has been packed with medical tests. It has been overwhelming and has encouraged me to start doing something healthy for myself.
Last week, I downloaded an app for indoor walking. It is a short walk, and it is fun to do. Then, I go to YouTube and do Chair Yoga for Seniors. I am also doing exercises for physical therapy! I feel so much better after exercising.
Remaining physically healthy in old age involves a holistic approach that combines diet, exercise, mental health care, regular medical check-ups, and more. Here are some steps that can be taken to maintain physical health as we age:
1. Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise such as walking, swimming, yoga, or tai chi. These activities improve cardiovascular health, flexibility, balance, and muscle strength, reducing the risk of falls and chronic diseases.
2. Healthy Diet: Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Proper nutrition helps manage weight, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and supports overall health.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining health. Hydration aids in digestion prevents constipation, and keeps the skin healthy.
4. Regular Health Screenings: Regular visits to healthcare providers for screenings and preventive services can catch health issues early when they are more treatable. Health screenings include vision, hearing, dental health, heart health, and cancer screenings.
5. Mental Health: Mental well-being is as important as physical health. Engaging in social activities, maintaining friendships, hobbies, and possibly therapy or counseling can support mental health.
6. Adequate Sleep: Getting enough sleep is vital for recovery, mood regulation, and overall health. Older adults should aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night.
7. Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can exacerbate health problems and increase the risk of chronic diseases.
8. Stay Engaged: Participation in community activities, volunteering, or joining clubs can provide a sense of purpose and reduce the feeling of isolation.
9. Brain Health: Activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles, reading, and learning a new skill or language, can help maintain cognitive function.
10. Manage Stress: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help manage stress levels.
11. Fall Prevention: Making the living environment safer by removing tripping hazards, improving lighting, and possibly using assistive devices as needed can prevent falls, a common cause of injury among older adults.
12. Medication Management: Regularly reviewing medications with a healthcare provider can ensure that all medications are still necessary and not causing adverse effects.
These steps, combined with a positive outlook on aging, can help maintain physical health and improve the quality of life in old age. It's essential to consult with healthcare providers to tailor health strategies appropriate to one's specific health conditions and lifestyle.
I encourage you to start caring for yourself and live a healthy life through the aging process.
Have a great week!!
