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You can’t stand in a checkout line without seeing at least a few magazine headlines about how to look and feel younger.
Aging gracefully isn’t about trying to look like a 20-something. It’s about living your best life and having the physical and mental health to enjoy it.
Read on to find out what to do and what not to do on your quest to age happily.
Use these tips to help you age gracefully from the inside out.
Your skin is your body’s
To keep it looking and functioning at its best:
Regular exercise significantly lowers your risk of diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, and helps you retain your mobility longer. Exercise also helps lower stress and improves sleep, skin, bone health, and mood.
The
Exercise doesn’t require a gym membership. Some examples of aerobic exercise can be done at home or in your community and may include:
Muscle- and bone-strengthening exercises can be performed using weights or resistance bands.
Older adults should also focus on activities that include balance training, aerobic exercise, and muscle-strengthening exercises.
Nutritious foods are the way to go when it comes to aging gracefully. The
They recommend avoiding solid fats for cooking and use healthy cooking oils instead.
They also recommend focusing on adding nutrient-dense foods to your diet and avoiding foods that are:
Managing your stress levels and mental health can help you live and age well.
To support your mood and well being:
A 2019 review of multiple studies has linked a sedentary life to an increased risk of chronic illness and early death.
Some options to stay active include:
Stress
Proven ways to relieve stress include:
Tobacco and alcohol can both have negative effects on the body, including:
If you use alcohol or tobacco, stopping or limiting use of these products can reduce these risks and support your overall health.
Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but there are resources available to help you quit, if you smoke. You can speak with a doctor about how to quit.
As for alcohol, moderate drinking compared with excessive drinking, reduces many health risks associated with it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
However, the CDC notes that moderate alcohol use still has risks compared to not drinking at all. Drinking less is better for your health than drinking more.
Getting enough quality sleep is important for your physical and mental health.
How much sleep you need can depend on your age. Adults over 18 should aim for
Getting enough sleep has been proven to:
Finding new and meaningful hobbies can help you maintain a sense of purpose and keep you engaged throughout the course of your life.
People who engage in hobbies, leisure, and social activities
Other social activities to consider may include:
Mindfulness is about acceptance and living in the moment by focusing on the present. Practicing mindfulness has many potential health benefits that can help you age better, including:
To practice mindfulness, try:
Drinking enough water helps keep you regular and improves your energy levels and brain function.
How much water you should drink depends on:
Some experts recommend drinking between 6 to 8 glasses of water per day.
Another method is to drink enough water so than your urine is light yellow to clear. However, note that some medications can change the color of your urine, so this method may not work for everyone.
Speak to a doctor if you have questions or concerns about your water intake.
Not taking care of your teeth not only ages your smile but also puts you at risk for gum disease, which has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and bacterial pneumonia.
Along with proper oral care, it’s important to see a dentist regularly. In addition to providing dental cleanings, routine dental appointments also include screenings for oral cancer.
The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.
Having regular appointments with a primary care doctor may help prevent health issues or detect problems early. It can also help ensure you get the necessary tests and screenings for your age and health history. These
How often your doctor may recommend regular checkups can depend on factors such as:
Let your doctor know anytime you experience concerning symptoms.
Though aging is inevitable, some people find it difficult to cope with the changes that come with it.
If you’re worried about your health or having trouble feeling positive about aging, it’s important to reach out for help.
Talk with someone you trust, such as a family member or close friend. Professional help is also available through a doctor or a counselor.
Aging gracefully is more about being healthy and happy than keeping wrinkles at bay.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, surround yourself with people you love, and do things that bring you joy.
It’s natural to worry about the challenges that aging can bring, so don’t hesitate to speak to someone about your concerns.
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