Prime Time

The Art of Aging Gracefully

10 tips to live your best life as you age

WRITTEN BY JILL BIGGINS GERBRACHT

The art of aging gracefully isn’t about trying to look 20 years younger than you are. It’s about living your best life and having the physical and mental health to enjoy it. Taking proper steps to promote self-care and good health can make all the difference in how we see ourselves as we age.

For most older adults, good health ensures independence, security and productivity. It’s natural to worry about the challenges aging can bring, but if you can maintain a healthy lifestyle, surround yourself with people you love and do things that bring you joy, you can enjoy a fulfilling life well into your sunset years.

Here are some tips to help you age gracefully from the inside out. Enjoy.

Be Kind to Your Skin Your skin is your body’s largest organ. If you treat it with care, it can better protect your body from the elements, regulate body temperature and provide sensation. To keep it looking and functioning at its best, wear sunscreen, get yearly skin cancer screenings, follow an anti-aging skin care routine and stay hydrated.

Exercise Regular exercise lowers your risk of diseases such as heart disease and cancer and helps you retain your mobility. Exercise also lowers stress and improves sleep, skin and bone health, and mood. It is recommended to incorporate 2½ to 5 hours per week of moderate-intensity exercise, 1¼ to 2½ hours per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, or a combination of the two for optimum benefit. Older adults should also focus on activities that include balance training and muscle strengthening.

Mind Your Diet Healthy foods are key when it comes to aging gracefully. Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein (such as fish and beans), whole grains, low-fat dairy and healthy fats—along with a low-sodium intake—are recommended.

Focus on Mental Health Happiness is a choice, and keeping your mood elevated will keep your stress level down. Focusing on happiness goes a long way on the path to aging well. Ways to keep your state of mind positive include spending time with loved ones, accepting your age and stage of life, and doing the things you enjoy. These three mood boosters are sure to bring you more satisfying days ahead.

Find New Hobbies Finding new and meaningful hobbies can help you maintain a sense of purpose and keep you engaged throughout your lifetime.

Lower Your Stress Stress takes a huge toll on your body and can even contribute to premature aging, wrinkles and a higher risk of heart disease. It is important to find ways to lower your stress level through activities such as relaxation techniques, exercise, sleep and talking things out with a friend.

Get Enough Sleep We all know a good night’s sleep does wonders, but it is also important for your physical and mental health. Adults should get a minimum of seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Getting enough sleep has been proven to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, reduce stress and depression, reduce inflammation and lower the risk of obesity, as well as improve focus and concentration!

Drink Plenty of Water Drinking enough water helps keep you regular and improves your energy level and brain function. It’s also known to keep your skin healthier and reduce the signs of aging. Speak to a doctor if you have questions or concerns about your water intake.

Take Care of Your Mouth Taking care of your teeth and gums will keep you smiling and lower your risk of gum disease, which can lead to other types of disease. It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day and use a mouth rinse.

See Your Doctor Regularly Seeing a doctor regularly is of great benefit, especially as one ages. Your doctor can find problems early or before they start. They will also suggest how often you should go in for checkups and age-related screening tests. And remember if you are experiencing concerning symptoms, you should see always see a doctor. •