Aging doesn’t have to mean a decline in quality of life. In fact, many people find their golden years to be some of their most fulfilling. By understanding 7 Signs You're Aging Well, According To Geriatricians, you can adopt essential behaviors that lead to a rewarding and healthful life.
Connecting the Dots: Three Key Areas of Aging Well
Doctors emphasize that aging well involves three main aspects: physical health, emotional connection, and mental support. According to Dr. Parul Goyal of Vanderbilt Health, these components work together to enhance longevity. Physical health is about nutrition and exercise, emotional health involves relationships and community, and mental health focuses on cognitive engagement and openness about one's emotional needs.
1. You Take Time to Learn New Things
Cognitive health is crucial in aging well. Engaging in activities that stimulate your mind can form new neural pathways, keeping you mentally fit. Dr. Goyal encourages learning new skills — whether it’s a new game, language, or musical instrument. These activities not only challenge your brain but also add richness to your daily routines.
Think about exploring online platforms like Coursera or edX for language courses, or trying out Duolingo for fun language practice. Not only do these tools provide an excellent opportunity for learning, but they also help forge connections with peers who might be in the same learning journey.
2. You’re Honest About Your Needs
Many individuals struggle because they don’t express their needs openly. Robyn Golden from Rush University Medical Center emphasizes the importance of communication. Being transparent about feelings of loneliness or challenges with mental health can lead to timely interventions and support. The stigma around ageism often leads to a sense of invisibility, but openly discussing your emotional state with family or friends is crucial for aging well.
Consider joining support groups or online communities, such as those found on Meetup or Facebook, where you can share your experiences and find connections with others facing similar challenges.
3. You Have a Community
Creating and maintaining social connections is vital for mental well-being. Studies have shown that social relationships play a significant role in cognitive function and emotional health. Dr. Goyal notes that the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated isolation for many older adults, making it essential to stay involved with your community.
Whether through volunteering at a local food bank or participating in community events, engaging with others keeps your mind active and fosters a sense of belonging. Joining clubs or classes can also be a great way to expand your social circle.
4. You Prioritize Your Physical Health
Diet and exercise are cornerstones of healthy aging. Following a Mediterranean diet or DASH diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can significantly affect your overall health. Dr. Goyal suggests drinking plenty of water and staying active through walking, yoga, or strength training.
If you’re unsure where to start, consider apps like MyFitnessPal to track your diet or Fitbit to monitor your activity levels. Starting physical therapy to improve gait and balance is also advisable for older adults hesitant to exercise.
5. You Do Things You Enjoy
Having hobbies and interests is a way to enrich your life as you age. Engaging in activities that make you happy — whether it’s traveling, trying new recipes, or playing board games — helps keep boredom at bay. Dr. Lindquist highlights that chronic boredom can indicate deeper emotional issues, hence the importance of being proactive in finding enjoyment.
Consider re-discovering old passions or developing new ones. Websites like Skillshare or YouTube provide excellent resources for virtually any hobby you want to explore.
6. You Talk to Your Doctor About Your Medications
Medication needs often change as we age. Dr. Lindquist mentions that many older adults unintentionally take unnecessary medications. Reviewing your prescriptions regularly with your physician ensures that you’re only taking what is necessary for your health.
If you have a medication-related question or concern, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Pharmacists can also help clarify the ongoing need for specific medications, making them a valuable resource as you evaluate your treatment plan.
7. You Plan for the Future
Planning ahead isn’t about anticipating the end — it’s about ensuring your autonomy as you age. Dr. Lindquist advises having conversations with family about your future needs, whether they involve hospitalization or additional support at home.
Creating a robust plan allows you to remain in control of your decisions, maintaining dignity and ensuring your desires are respected. Resources like the Plan Your Lifespan project can assist in navigating these critical conversations.
Embracing these strategies can significantly enhance your quality of life as you grow older. Dr. Goyal emphasizes that adopting these positive behaviors should start when you’re younger — ideally in your 30s and 40s. Living well entails making conscious choices that prioritize nutrition, emotional connection, and mental engagement. Notably, chronological age is less important than how you feel. No matter your age, it’s never too late to adopt strategies for better aging, ensuring your golden years are filled with joy and fulfillment.