Thanks to remarkable advances in science and technology, life expectancies are longer than ever before. It is not uncommon for people to live well into their 80s and beyond. But while increased longevity is a blessing, it makes it especially important to stay in good health for as long as possible. Fortunately, no matter what your age, it’s never too late to try something new or to take control of your health.
As we approach a new year, now is the perfect time to assess old habits and adopt new behaviors that will keep you feeling strong and keep you well both physically and mentally.
To celebrate 2020 (and to celebrate YOU) here are 5 simple tips you can implement today for healthy aging.
1. Be Positive!
Studies show that cultivating positive emotions to of variety situations may actually boost the immune system as well as provide other health benefits like lowered blood pressure and healthier blood sugar levels.
“But how do I stay positive when I don’t feel that way?” you might ask. When you catch yourself complaining or experiencing negative thoughts and emotions, make a conscious effort to change to something positive. Focus on the good things, no matter how small they might seem.
Smiling helps too. Smiling produces a powerful chemical reaction in the brain that actually makes you feel happier. Now there’s a reason to show those pearly whites.
2. Get Moving
Exercise has an effect on how fast or slow your body ages. And it’s never too late to get started. Just 30 minutes of daily exercise can improve bone and muscle strength and help improve resistance to illnesses. If exercise is not already a part of your daily routine, start by taking a walk every day.
If it’s the change of seasons that’s holding you back, find an indoor place to start logging those miles during the colder months. Shopping malls or indoor tracks make great places to escape the elements while you keep on moving.
3. Be Social
Social connectedness is key to healthy aging. In fact, studies indicate that people with close relationships not only live longer, but also cope better and experience less depression.
Some steps you can take to connect more with others include volunteering, joining community activities such as a community center, a place of worship, or even signing up for a class. You can also combine your daily walks with social activities. Walking is a great way to meet and greet your neighbors.
4. Get Annual Checkups
It might not seem like a big deal to miss an annual checkup, but in reality, it can mean the potential for missing the early signs of health issues. As we age, it becomes even more important to get regular preventive health assessments. Early detection is critical in discovering and managing certain diseases, both physical and mental.
If you haven’t been to see your doctor in a while, pick up the phone. Make 2020 the year you put your health first. You’ll be glad you did.
5. Don’t Forget Your Eyes
While you’re booking that annual exam, don’t forget about your eyes. An annual eye exam is important, particularly as we age. An eye exam goes well beyond just making sure your vision isn’t blurry or your glasses prescription doesn’t need adjusting. Certain eye conditions become more common after age 50 and catching them early offers the best possible outcome.
By age 60, more than 50% of people have developed a cataract. It’s a common concern, and can only be diagnosed with an eye exam by a qualified eye doctor. Read more about cataract questions to ask at your next eye exam.
Any time you take steps to improve your body, mind or spirit is a good time. But as we approach the beginning of a new year, it offers us an opportunity to take stock of our old habits and implement new ones. Starting with these five simple tips for healthy aging, why not ring in 2020 with your health in mind?
The Advanced IC-8 lens advantage
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For more information on healthy aging:
https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2016/12/optistic-women-live-longer-are-healthier/
https://academic.oup.com/aje/article/185/1/21/2631298
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/04/190412094728.htm
https://www.nytimes.com/guides/well/how-to-age-well
https://www.healthinaging.org/blog/social-connectedness-a-key-to-healthy-aging/
