As about 10,000 adults are turning 65 each day, it is estimated that the number of older American will grow at a rate never seen before. Without doubt, as we all get older some of us can’t help but worry if a “senior moment” might actually be something worse. In fact, many people may endure cognitive changes as they get older, including forgetfulness and a loss of their capacity for multitasking or concentration.
While some of these changes are “normal,” there are some key factors that could help us live a fulfilling life as we grow older. In this article I will share some insights and useful tips on healthy living which ultimately will translate into healthy aging.
After years of research and several studies performed on large numbers of individuals who were followed throughout their life, today we have abundant evidence suggesting that each of us can take several simple steps to promote a healthy lifestyle and enhance our overall well-being.
The first concept that has emerged from these studies is that the ability to maintain good health is not a random event nor a coincidence; it is the result of consistently practicing healthy habits every day. This concept, though theoretical, can be easily translated into real-life choices. For instance, here are some simple changes we can all adopt: having an apple instead of potato chips during our lunch; reducing TV/video time and instead indulging in reading a book or magazine; if we are in a building with several floors take the stairs instead of the elevator; reduce or avoid isolation and encourage social connections and engagements.
Once we make ourselves familiar with these options, we should set them as monthly health goals, by doing so we can actively pursue a healthier lifestyle. It’s important to remember that healthy living is a choice – one that is often easier to make than we may think. While it may seem daunting to overhaul our entire lifestyle, the truth is that even small changes can have a significant impact on our overall well-being. By gradually incorporating healthy habits into our daily routine, we can create a solid foundation for long-term health benefits. However, what we often fail to realize is that our choices not only affect our own health but can also influence those around us. By prioritizing our well-being, we set a positive example for our friends, family, and loved ones. Healthy habits are contagious, and when we make conscious choices to live a healthier life, we inspire others to do the same.
In the quest for healthy aging, making healthy living choices is paramount. By adopting a proactive approach to our lifestyle and consistently making decisions that support our well-being, we can greatly enhance the quality of our lives as we age. So, let’s embrace healthy living as the foundation for a vibrant and fulfilling journey towards a healthier and happier future.
While there’s no magic formula for healthy aging, there’s ample evidence that making conscious choices to prioritize our health can have a profound and long-term impact. By incorporating simple yet powerful habits into our daily lives, we can pave the way for a healthier, more vibrant future. Let’s remember that healthy living is a choice – a choice that empowers us to take control of our well-being and embrace the journey towards healthy aging with enthusiasm and optimism. So, start making those healthy choices today and let them guide us towards a life of vitality, joy, and fulfillment.
For more information on this topic, please visit my website: www.pratico-lab.com.
Dr. Domenico Pratico is the director of the Alzheimer’s Center at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia.