Growing older is a gift that brings wisdom, joyful memories, and rich life experiences. But aging can also be challenging on the mind and body. What makes it possible to age with grace? Let’s hear what experts are saying about the process and understand how your decisions can impact your health.
Aging statistics
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the pace of the population aging is faster than in the past. It’s predicted by year 2030 that 1 in 6 people in the world will be aged 60 years or over. By 2050, they explain, the world’s population of people aged 60 and up will double. Additionally, the number of people aged 80 years or older is expected to triple between 2020 and 2050 to reach a whopping 426 million.
What does it mean?
These statistics indicate that greater numbers of older people will be living in the world. For that reason, the subject of aging and health will pertain to many across the globe.
Longevity in the U.S.
It is a common goal of people to live long and well. However, the U.S. lags in healthcare. Most advanced countries feature economies with booming industries, cutting-edge technologies, infrastructure, and healthcare systems. In the U.S., despite being an advanced country with higher healthcare spending, the nation has a lower life expectancy than peer nations. Unaffordable healthcare, lower wages, high stress, and systemic inequities are linked to poorer health outcomes. The U.S. experiences high rates of preventable deaths, chronic disease, drugs and violence. Through educational campaigns, citizens are encouraged to adopt positive personal habits such as avoiding high risk behaviors (smoking, drugs, alcohol, obesity, etc.) to boost health outcomes and age well.
The aging body
Trouble hearing, osteoporosis, and cataracts are some medical conditions that are all too common in older adults. Often, these conditions can be medically addressed so a person can live a quality life. What really happens to people when they get older? Per WHO, “At the biological level, ageing results from the impact of the accumulation of a wide variety of molecular and cellular damage over time. This leads to a gradual decrease in physical and mental capacity, a growing risk of disease and ultimately death.” Despite that grim explanation, we can celebrate that most people live a larger portion of their lives in decent health. Additionally, modern day medicine and fit lifestyles can help deliver positive outcomes that enable people to age gracefully.
What is aging gracefully?
People in the beauty industry often talk about “aging gracefully,” but the term means slightly different things to different people. While it can pertain to external beauty, such as wrinkle prevention, it mainly describes how to successfully navigate physical and mental challenges that occur with aging. WebMD emphasizes that aging gracefully involves accepting and adapting to inevitable changes rather than denying them. Experts share that there are sensible actions older people can take to age gracefully. Key aspects include prioritizing physical and mental health through common sense practices. This includes:
Navigating health and wellness
WebMD shares, “Throughout the ages, people have been searching for the elusive ‘Fountain of Youth.’ And this desire for a magical place, pill, or tonic that can prevent or reverse the effects of aging has sired a new, and growing, field of medicine –antiaging medicine.” Many people equate “aging gracefully” with naturally, but the term is largely subjective. With so many products and alternative treatments on the market, it can be challenging for older people to navigate a wellness path. When in doubt, advice from a medical practitioner is advised.
External beauty
People have a tendency to place importance on their outward appearance. A common non-surgical treatment for wrinkle reduction and prevention is injections of botulinum toxin type A, popularly known under the brand name Botox. The non-surgical procedure has risen in popularity for people seeking anti-aging treatments. Though effective for many, it is a somewhat costly cosmetic procedure that poses potential for side effects. People considering Botox injections or other beauty treatments should consult with their doctor to determine what treatments are best. Frequently, outward appearance reflects what’s happening inside the body, so addressing internal health should be a priority. For instance, weak nails may reflect poor nutrition, hair loss may indicate hormonal conditions, and chronic acne may result from internal imbalances. These should be medically addressed.
Use of vitamins
Senior citizens frequently take vitamins and mineral supplements to boost health and youthfulness. According to some studies, vitamins such as C and E supplements may help improve skin health and possibly reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Multivitamins, supplements containing combinations of vitamins and minerals, are a popular way to potentially improve health. Though they are likely safe for most people, the need for supplements is controversial. For individuals lacking certain essential vitamins, supplements are likely beneficial under a healthcare provider’s guidance. It’s wise to consult a doctor about the risks and benefits of taking supplements (even multivitamins) and learn what dosage is safest. WebMD explains that too much vitamin C or zinc can cause nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, so getting what’s needed in the proper dosage is vital.
American exercise guru and television personality Jack LaLanne lived to be ninety-six. He remains recognized today as one of the most influential athletes in the U.S. Throughout his lifetime, LaLanne encouraged consistent exercise and clean eating and living. Even into his nineties, he lifted weights, swam, and performed other demanding workouts to maintain endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health. This “Godfather of Fitness” believed in encouraging others, including older people, to keep their bodies moving and eat healthfully. “There is no fountain of youth. What you put into your body is what you get out of it. You would not feed your dog a coffee and doughnut for breakfast followed by a cigarette. You will kill the damn dog.” The environment and genetics also greatly influence health. Per Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “Genes play a role in almost every human trait and disease.” Still, people maintain some control over their own health outcomes through healthy behaviors.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellness plays a crucial role in overall health, affecting aspects like decision-making, handling relationships, and self-perception. According to National Council on Aging (NCOA), “Making mental health a priority can help us age with greater joy, contentment, and purpose.” They describe that as people age, they encounter new challenges such as retirement, loss of loved ones, or physical limitations. Situations such as these can impact emotional and psychological health. NCOA explains, “But with these challenges come opportunities for growth, resilience, and new ways to find joy and purpose.” Seeking treatment for mental health conditions is significant. Engaging in healthy activities and limiting sources of negativity can also help. Embracing calming techniques such as prayer or meditation for the management of stress and/or anxiety is beneficial. Self-care, too, is critical. This includes prioritizing relaxation, setting goals for oneself, and spending time in nature to decompress.
Advocating for your own health
A strong connection exists between aging gracefully and health. Taking care of oneself physically and mentally is key to looking, feeling, and performing well. Although people lack control over their entire health, as biological changes sneak up on us and medical circumstances can unexpectedly change, experts say that overseeing life decisions, being proactive in caring for one’s body and mind, and making wise choices are powerful tools linked to improved health outcomes. There are many instances where lifestyle choices can make a tremendous difference, enabling people to gracefully age and enjoy all the special chapters of their lives.
Disclosure: This article is purely informational and is not intended as a medical resource. Always consult a doctor for personal medical advice.
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