Aging Gracefully
Spring 2015 | By Benita Thomas, MD and Katie Zaccheo, ARNP, Martin Family Care
It’s easy to find the downside of getting older – failing eyesight, creaky joints, the loss of dear family and friends – but age can bring positive changes too. Many older people find they have less stress and more time for family, interests and hobbies than they used to.
To a great extent, life in older age depends on the choices you make now and how you cope with the changes that come your way. Choosing to have an active mind and body is one way to make growing older easier and more pleasant. Easier said than done? Here are a few pointers to help you on your way:
Make your mental health a top priority.
Isolation and stress can contribute to depression and other health problems. Stay connected to family and friends and practice healthy ways to cope with stress. A good night’s sleep is also essential to your mental well-being. Prepare for bedtime by reducing stress or activities that stimulate your brain. Some individuals find taking melatonin before bedtime is helpful.
Maintain good GI health.
Many diets today contain too much sugar and processed foods. Avoid these as best you can to maintain a health gastrointestinal tract. If you have digestive problems, try a daily probiotic to create bacterial balance in your system. Include more healthy fats, like Omega-3, in your diet. Limit alcoholic beverages to no more than one a day.
Get physical!
Exercise has many positive benefits for both the body and mind. If you haven’t been physically active, gradually build up to at least 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise each week. To reap the greatest benefit – and to keep it fun and interesting - change up your weekly routine by incorporating aerobics, weight bearing exercise and balance training. Schedule time to exercise and set goals to challenge yourself. If you make physical activity a priority, it can become as much a part of your daily routine as brushing your teeth!
Develop open communication between you and your medical provider.
Sometimes, a combination of genetics and environmental factors—including your lifestyle—puts you at risk for different disorders. By working with your doctor, you can better understand your specific risks. Just as important, you can learn how to head off those things that pose some of the greatest risks. If you already have a health problem, it’s important to work closely with your doctor to manage your condition.
No matter your age, it’s never too late to make your health the number one priority in your life. You will reap the benefits in a relatively short time and improve your ability to age gracefully!
Katherine Zaccheo, APRN
