A Guide To Grow Older And Wiser Scientifically

“Ageing is an extraordinary process where you become the person you always should have been.”

– David Bowie

Aging is one of the most spectacular things that can happen to you. A study had shown that people are usually happiest in their youths and in their 70s and 80s. Old age is the time to reap everything you have sown in your life. Sadly enough though, often it is linked to a not so pleasant time in our country. Often people stop having all the fun and give up on their interests. The following are a few tips that will help you age gracefully.

1. Walk

Goes without saying that walking is a great exercise. Studies have shown that a 30-minute walk can keep weight in control, boost mood and can help you sleep better. It can also reduce the chances of Alzheimer’s disease or delay the appearance of symptoms.

2. Socialize

It has been proved that elderly people who live alone face difficulty in performing everyday tasks, have high levels of inflammation and reduced immunity. Whatever the reason may be, loneliness only increases your likelihood of dementia and depression. So face time or video call friends and family, join some nearby clubs and host dinners often!

3. Give up that Cigarette

Much has been said about the harmful effects of cigarette smoking. Every cigarette contains more than 7,000 chemicals and 70 of them are proved to cause cancer. Smoking induces many ailments from lung cancer to heart disease. Within one year of quitting smoking, the chances of you having heart disease drop to 50%. So don’t give in to that urge.

4. Look what you eat

Diet is an essential part of being healthy in old age. Include as many vegetables, fruits, nuts and grains as you can in your diet. Avoid butter, sugar and other processed foods. Include more fibers in your diet as it keeps you filled for longer and reduces cholesterol levels.

5. Don’t ignore Supplements

After the age of 50, the body needs more minerals and vitamins. Often, diet is not sufficient to provide these nutrients. They include calcium, vitamin B12, B6 and D. If you are taking some other medications, inform your doctor about them so that there are no unwanted interactions.

6. Don’t give up your hobby

Just because you are 60 does not mean that you should stop painting or writing. Publish that book, draw the portrait you have always wanted to draw. Don’t give up reading. Read as much as you can. Sticking to your hobby will keep the child in you alive.

Aging reduces some functions in life, but it’s not necessary that it should compromise everything in your life. Do not let age only make you grow only old, rather let it make you both older and wiser.

“Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.”

– Betty Friedan