Area Agency on Aging

Consistency is not the key to aging. Even if you’ve made fairly healthy lifestyle choices throughout your life, you’ll still find yourself having to adjust in some ways.However, don’t fall into the trap of thinking aging means slowing down. Researchers have connected sedentary lifestyles to unnatural conditions like high blood pressure and other chronic issues. These are not simply symptoms of agingthey are the result of earlier lifestyle choices, combined with genetic predispositions. Embracing a healthy diet and exercise no matter what your age is a significant investment in your future health. Obviously, though, the types and amounts of exercise that older adults will be capable of will be different than younger people.There are some other changes that are specific to older adults. Among other things, there may be emotional shocks like children moving out of the home, or the death of a loved one. Focusing on positive elements in your life will help you avoid depressive thoughts, and most likely improve your overall well-being. Along with this is the need to express your emotions, including frustration at the things you can’t change. Letting your emotions build up within you is a painful and unnecessary processsharing them can be a relief to you and to your loved ones.You will likely find yourself with more free time as you age, especially after retirement. While taking time to simply relax without anything specific to do can be a healthy and enjoyable experience, this is also a great time to explore hobbies or activities that you’ve neglected or avoided through the years. Revisit an old hobby like knitting, dancing, or reading, or focus on spending more time with your children and grandchildren. Challenge yourself by learning something new, whether it’s an instrument or a language, or get involved in community events and outreach programs. You’ll be surprised at the difference that one person can make in the community. Most likely, you’ll also notice a difference within yourself.That’s because networking isn’t just a tool for young job-searchersit’s also a good way to stay active and connected in later life. Even as your children move on to focus on their own lives, you should welcome the chance to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. Check for groups centered on your interests in the community, or reach out to people at your place of worship.Aging is definitely associated with change, but these changes simply signal a new transition in your life. Take advantage of every opportunity to make it a worthwhile one.