How do you feel about the aging process? Do you see it as a positive rite of passage or a negative phenomenon that must be tolerated?
Experts and researchers on older adults agree that the following lifestyle factors can help improve your attitude toward aging and improve your quality of life. It’s never too late to start incorporating these habits into your daily routine.
Maintain physical activity – Physical activity and exercise are extremely beneficial to both our physical and emotional health. Daily moderate exercise is an excellent way to relieve stress, maintain a healthy weight, strengthen aging bones, and improve attitude. According to aging experts, a regular walking and strength training routine is an ideal way for many older Americans to maintain their fitness and sense of well-being. Consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program to determine the best plan for you.
Work on stress reduction – While it is nearly impossible to avoid stress and negative experiences as we age, there are a variety of useful ways to minimize and manage it. Different techniques work for different people, but many people have found that meditation, yoga, tai chi, walking, prayer, and deep breathing exercises are beneficial. Because stress can be harmful to both the mind and the body, it is critical to find a stress-reduction regimen that works for you.
Maintain brain activity – Maintaining a healthy, active brain is another important aspect of emotional health and well-being as we age, and it has also been linked to the prevention or delay of dementia. Crossword puzzles, board games, reading, learning a second language, painting, listening to classical music, and developing new skills are also thought to be beneficial to brain health. Many older Americans are now taking classes at a local college as well as online courses to keep their minds active.
You can reduce the stress of aging and improve your outlook on life by following these tips. When it comes to growing older, the phrase “attitude is everything” has proven to be true!
