Three Secrets to Aging Well
Information supplied by Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Have the song lyrics to "When I'm 64" taken on new meaning to you at middle age? While adults over 60 are enjoying healthier lives than ever, many people still view life after 60 as negative. Many fear loss of loved ones, looks, physical abilities and brainpower.
Others assume aging naturally means feeling weaker, less fit and less mentally alert. "These are not natural consequences of aging," stresses Julie Larsen, MD, medical director for West Wood Health & Fitness Center. "We now know that one's chronological age and physiological age are not necessarily the same," she says. Furthermore, there is plenty that middle agers can do to ensure they will age there best.
The MacArthur Foundation Study of Aging in America unearthed the following interrelated, lifestyle factors common in people who have aged well: regular physical and mental exercise; active engagement with life through behavior and relationships; and avoiding chronic diseases.
Exercise is the number one anti-aging tactic, believe many experts, including those on the Johns Hopkins Health Over 50 board. "Research tells us that it's never too late to start reaping its benefits, " says Larsen. "Exercise can add two to six years to your life and dramatically improve its quality." In mid-life, exercise may control weight gain, depression, loss of muscle mass and bone density, lower the risk of coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes and certain cancers. It also may help reduce hot flashes.
Active engagement with life means staying involved with the world by continuing to learn and forge relationships with people of all ages. Being socially active in a productive activity––such as working, volunteering, gardening or housework––lowers mortality significantly, studies state. Strong relationships with family, friends and your community can help you cope with life's inevitable losses. Last, but not least avoid chronic diseases as best you can. A recently completed long-term study on America's leading chronic disease––heart disease––affirms that eating and exercise habits significantly affect our risk.
"Mid-life is the time to plan for older years with lifestyle changes," stresses Geri Heppe, Senior Services coordinator with Waukesha Memorial Hospital. "We have the information to help us live longer, more active lives. How we perceive ourselves is the key to successful aging." Meanwhile, look toward marvelous examples of life after 70: Golda Meir taking the reins of Israel's Labor Party, John Glenn blasting off into space, and the continuing, brilliant creativity of Michelangelo, Verdi, Picasso, Rembrandt and many others.
Information supplied by Waukesha
Memorial Hospital.
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