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Introduction |
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Close Relationship |
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Health and Well-Being |
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Spirituality |
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Community Involvement |
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New Learning Experiences |
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Tips for Vital Aging |
Introduction
In every community there are men and women in their 90s and 100s who are still vital and active, sound of mind, body, and spirit. Most have persevered through many hardships, and have learned the value of adding life to their years, not just years to their life.
Decades of research have debunked the myth that to be old is to be sick and frail. A dramatic decline in old age is not inevitable. Many older adults have the potential to live life to the fullest into their 10th decade. Research shows that the choices we make have tremendous impact on our own aging process.
In a 2000 survey by the National Council on the Aging called “American Perception of Aging in the 21st Century,” adults age 75 and older said that family and friends were the most important aspect of a meaningful, vital life, followed by health. Also important to a successful late life was a rich spiritual life, being involved in the community, and having new learning experiences.
Close Relationships
Staying connected to family and friends is critical to successful aging. People who develop and maintain their social support network tend to be happier and live longer than people who do not. Social involvement can help combat depression and loneliness and provide purpose and meaning in life.
People who are well-connected to others develop new friendships all their lives and look for opportunities to meet new people of all ages.
Health and Well-Being
Physical activity is a significant factor to maintaining good health. Physical inactivity and a poor diet are also closely associated with the most deadly diseases—heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.
Exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking are lifestyle choices that preserve a youthful vitality. People who are healthy in their 90s and beyond work at maintaining a high level of physical and mental functioning.
The good news is, it is never too late to promote health by improving one’s diet and becoming active. Even very frail older adults have seen dramatic progress with strength training. Active older adults have found that physical activity can be considered the fountain of youth.
Mental activity helps to keep the brain sharp. Reading, working crossword puzzles, learning a new language, and engaging in other mental exercises help to stimulate mental faculties. Changing the route you drive to the store, trying a new recipe, or changing any routine behavior challenges the brain and relieves boredom.
Spirituality
As people age, they tend to care more about spiritual matters. For some, spirituality may be focusing on a larger entity outside of themselves. For others, it is the attempt to find a life purpose. Numerous studies have shown that religious faith and participation in religious organizations contribute to healthy aging and help older adults cope with illness, disability, and loss.
Religious and spiritual communities also provide a network of support and friendship, comfort and inspiration after loss, and opportunities to serve others. Prayer and meditation practices help relieve stress and improve coping skills for a healthier, more satisfying life.
Community Involvement
Older adults often find meaning in their ability to serve others and use their resources for the betterment of their community. Sharing interests and skills keep them connected with people of all ages and give their life meaning and purpose. People who continue to find a place in their community are generally happier and healthier than those who withdraw and become isolated.
New Learning Experiences
People can continue to learn and engage in new experiences throughout their lives. Often, it is the attitude that new experiences and learning are possible that keeps people young. People who believe in themselves and their abilities will find that learning is challenging, rather than difficult.
Tips for Vital Aging:
Keep a positive attitude. Confidence in skills and abilities and a good sense of humor will greatly enhance the aging process.
Plan ahead for the later years. Consider all your needs for health, housing, independence, and financial and emotional support.
Stay involved with people of all generations.
Exercise mind and body daily.
Expect change and find ways to adjust and adapt to whatever life brings.
Set goals and work toward them each day.
Stay connected to people, the community, and to a cause.
Learn something new.
Find help early before a crisis happens. Social workers can refer you to local services for assistance and help with the changes that aging brings.
Never act your age. Society diminishes the value of older adults and expects little from them. Ignore your chronological age and live life on your own terms.
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