Updated: 1/24/2020
There comes a point in life where a word starts to follow you around: “old.” It serves as a constant reminder that you’re not as young as you once were and aren’t able to do the same things as before. For some, this is a frustrating reality and hard to accept. Fortunately, we’ve come up with a list of the Top 5 Tips for Aging Well.
1. Have a Good Attitude
If you find aging to be a bit of a challenge (let’s face it – who doesn’t?), you are only going to make it worse by having a bad attitude. Thrive in the time of life you are at and make the most of the opportunities that come your way! Don’t put yourself down if you have trouble reaching your goals, and remember to have realistic expectations. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! The best way to enjoy your maturity will start with a positive attitude.
2. Exercise More
Photo by fpra/ CC BY-NC-SA
If you don’t have a routine of regular exercise, it’s never too late to start. Like they say, there’s no time like the present! As you get older, you start to lose more and more muscle mass, so working out – whatever that may look like for you – is a great practice. Here are some options for exercise:
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- Lift Small Weights – Some people even use cans of soup!
- Walk Around the Mall – Head to your local mall for some early morning exercise. Most malls allow people to walk there before all of the shops open.
- Aerobics – Join an aerobics class to burn calories and maintain a healthy state.
- Pushups – Don’t brush it off. You can do it!
- Leg Raises – Try these to strengthen your thighs, hip and lower back.
- Stretches – Simply taking the time to stretch everyday will help you stay flexible and mobile.
For more fun exercise ideas, see Fun Ways to Exercise for Seniors.
3. Keep Your Health in Check
There are a lot of things that can cause unwanted diseases or health conditions. That’s why it’s important to go to your doctor regularly for checkups. Some things to keep an eye out for include:
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- High Blood Pressure
- Cholesterol Levels
- High or Low Blood Sugar
- Body Weight
- Vision Deterioration
- Thyroid Problems
If your doctor notices something unusual, once you have a diagnosis, discuss steps for moving forward. What can you do to improve your situation?
4. Mind Your Diet
Especially as you age, it’s important to manage what you’re putting into your body. You could develop dangerous conditions simply because you’re fueling yourself with junk! Remember to eat/drink plenty of:
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- Water – Drink at least 6 glasses a day. It will also help your skin stay moisturized!
- Fruits – Eat fruit. It will give you a lot of good fibers and vitamins.
- Veggies – The more the merrier! Be sure to eat lots of dark, leafy vegetables, as well as carrots and squashes. Eat plenty of these every day.
- Protein – People tend to lose body weight as they age, so eating lots of protein is important.
5. Have an Active Social Life
Photo by Be-Younger.com/ CC BY-NC-SA
Most importantly, don’t let aging be a lonely or tiresome experience! Not only is it dreary, but it’s bad for your health to do everything alone. Try your best to maintain strong social relationships by:
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- Have a “Health Buddy” – Convince your spouse or friend to join you in eating more healthily or exercising more often. Not only will this be more fun, but it will encourage you as you go.
- Host Events – This could be a game night, dinner party or whatever you want! Pick something you like to do and invite your friends or neighbors over to do it together.
- Invest in Younger Kids – In a way, this is “giving back.” Think about all of the mentors or older friends you had that helped you get to where you are today. What could you do to help a younger person? This could be anything from coaching a young girl on cooking one night a week or offering a young man advice over the phone. Just look around and seize opportunities to help!
Aging can be a lonely or frustrating experience. Don’t let it be! Remember to have plenty of fun and keep up healthy routines!
What is your top tip for aging well? Leave a comment below!
