Guest Post

The over 85s! They are now the fastest growing age group in society. This means for many, post retirement years offer a new lease on life and a time for opportunity and continued growth.

Living better and longer is often based on individual differences, but there are many things that are consistent across those who successfully age. But what is the magic formulae to growing older and staying healthy?

Below are 8 of the best ways to do so with a little difference.

Challenge your mind

As you get older it becomes almost inevitable that you won’t have the physical strength that you once had. Therefore it is important to channel this strength in the mind as this can continue to grow as you age. Stimulating the mind also has great health benefits and even a link with physical health enhancements. Simply reading, singing, playing word games or conversing with friends every day can go a long way to ensuring ageing becomes easier.

Mind over matter

Keeping with the mental aspect of ageing, it is important to try and channel your thoughts and attitudes. Age is essentially a pre-conceived idea and an attitude, not a number. The truth is you really are only as old as you feel/act. Therefore it is important to behave in a way that will keep you being dynamic. If you want to dance in the street, then dance in the street and if you want to paint a picture, do so! Go ahead and live life to the fullest!

Drink water

Water is life’s soul. In fact, it doesn’t matter what age you are; it is always important to stay hydrated. Water is one of the most critical components to healthy living. This perhaps isn’t a surprise as over 60% of our bodies are made of water. Lack of water can result in headaches, lack of energy and ultimately poor decisions. Simply consume two – three liters a day and you’ll be surprised at how much better it makes you feel.

Stay Social

Humans are social beings who thrive on interaction and wellbeing. Comprehensive studies have been undertaken which have concluded that being social can reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s, heart disease and depression. Similarly, isolation can have the reverse effects and is a catalyst for many underlying health issues. If you’re in the unfortunate position of having no one to communicate with, then attending group sessions is a great way to make friends and maintain a social life.

Embrace youth

It can be amazing what thirty minutes with the children or grandchildren can do for your wellbeing. Just as though you might bring wisdom, order and stability to their lives, they can give you a sense of optimism and humor. If you aren’t blessed with having grandchildren then merely helping out at a local school or day care can give you the same sense of fulfilment.

Walk the walk

It doesn’t matter whether it is 20 minutes or 2 hours, merely walking every day is a great way to reduce the chances of dying younger. Set yourself a goal of walking every single day and notice how much more energy you have!

Sleep well

Napping for just twenty minutes a day at around noon has many added benefits including lowering your chances of disease and helping to fight depression. Also getting a good night’s sleep is essential for a healthy lifecycle and can benefit your heart, weight and mind. With the increase in technology it is more important than ever to respect the light and day lifecycle that we live in.

Laugh

In most studies of those that have lived over 100, there’s a common trait – laughter and optimism. Laughter has been thought to protect your immune system and generally makes life more enjoyable. No matter how hard it is, try to laugh in the face of adversity.
With the vast amount of information available in today’s society, it can be confusing to determine what literature to believe. However, adhering to the aforementioned principles should go a long way in helping you to age more successfully.

For more ways to age successfully simply click here!

Author: HSL Chairs