Aging is a biological process that affects not only our bodies but our minds, as well. While some people grow old gracefully, others fight Mother Nature every step of the way. No matter which type of person you are, the information contained in this article gives you a wealth of tips, hints and advice on the physical and mental effects of aging and the different ways in which you can combat, control or learn to live peacefully with these changes.
Skip the heavy makeup and powders every now and then. Although they make us look lovely for the short term, they are contributing to the aging of your skin. Makeup generally hurts the skins ability to hydrate and stay elastic. Give your skin a break and take a few days off a week from more than just a slip of lip gloss.
One of the things that you can do, in order to achieve slow aging, is to avoid sugar. It is well known that sugar is one of the direct causes of aging and by avoiding it, you will significantly increase your lifespan. Try to remind yourself of this fact, when sugary sweets and desserts are calling your name.
To slow down the aging process, do some aerobic exercise everyday mixed with occasional light weight training. Numerous scientific studies have shown that exercise improves muscle strength, stamina, bone density and balance. As these four things deteriorate with age, regular exercise could help keep your body in good condition well into your 80s and beyond.
You know you should eat healthy as you age to keep your body in optimum health. Every once in a while, though, you need to indulge yourself. This way, you do not have to dread the same old same old every day, and can look forward to this treat. This may help you keep to your healthier eating plan if you know you get to have a party occasionally.
Keep a positive outlook on life! If you stay positive, your body will be under a lot less stress. The less stress your body is under, the healthier your body will be, the healthier you’ll look, and the longer you’ll live. So whenever things get gloomy, try and look at things in a positive light.
As you get age, so does your brain. Studies have shown that exercising your brain is as important as exercising your body. Memory exercises will improve the mind and help stave off memory illness or dementia. Small exercises like memorizing 10 objects as you take a walk through your neighborhood, then writing them down when you get home is a good example to the mind nimble and alert.
As you get older, keeping a good balance when walking is a common complaint. Oftentimes, some may resort to using a walker or cane to help them keep their footing. Studies had shown that instead of using the customary walker or cane, instead, use a pole. A pole will help strengthen the upper body as well as help the balance of the senior when they walk.
Are you caring for an aged family member who has Alzheimer’s disease? If so, it can sometimes be a stressful undertaking. You need to remember to carve a bit of time from your caregiver role to devote to some personal time for yourself. Make an appointment every day to meet a friend or spouse for a meal or a cup of coffee. Give yourself permission to ask others to take over your duties as caregiver while you take a break. You can also check out services offered by reputable adult day care programs.
Aging well depends on knowing the right time to step back from some things. You have always cleaned the chimney yourself. Now perhaps, it is time to let a professional do it. It may make you feel incompetent, but you must get over that. You don’t want to risk a fall and be laid up for weeks or months, trying to heal. There is wisdom in doing as much as you can do and knowing your limitations.
Learn something new. There’s an old saying that says, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”; it’s a myth. Get out there and take a class or develop a hobby. Not only will it occupy your time. Your brain will get a workout from the new information you’re learning.
Getting older can often seem like a scary prospect especially for people who are worried about their mental capabilities. The loss of mental ability is a real threat and to help avoid this it is important to maintain a good diet as well as do things to stimulate your thoughts and your brain.
Working on your self image during aging is vital. Self image is important as western cultures often place a great deal of emphasis on young people and you need to keep your self- esteem while aging. Just because media and popular culture is obsessed with youth, it does not mean you do not matter!
To combat the aging process one of the things that you can do is get some sun. This will help you to maximize the way that you feel and get vitamin D into your system, which can be very beneficial for your looks. During the spring and summer, spend at least an hour in the sun to look much younger and feel great during the day.
Always make sure to keep healthy snacks around your home or apartment if you want to reduce the signs of aging. If you are going to the supermarket, do not purchase potato chips, candy or cake, which will help you to reduce the temptation when you get an urge during the day. This will improve your appearance and reduce the fat content in your body.
Nobody wants to grow old, but it’s a fact of life that everyone must deal with eventually. Although no one has yet discovered the fountain of youth, there are ways to ease the aging process and make it less problematic. From hiding wrinkles to understanding Alzheimer’s, the above article provides everyone with the information they need to prepare for life as a senior citizen.
