No magazine checkout line would be complete without seeing at least one headline on “How to Age Gracefully.” While worrying about wrinkles and sagging is understandable, living well means approaching this journey with energy, curiosity, and an optimistic perspective.
While genetics play a part in how you age, lifestyle modifications can make an impactful difference to how well you age. Making time for regular exercise, healthy eating habits, stress management techniques and preventive healthcare will contribute to improved wellness for a more positive outlook as you get older.
Mental and emotional wellbeing play an essential part in the aging process, too. Engaging the mind through new experiences, social connections and nurturing your relationships is proven to improve cognitive function and resilience while staying connected virtually can reduce loneliness and isolation – factors which may contribute to decreased quality of life and higher risk for depression or anxiety.
Finding meaning later in life is integral to living well as you age. Without purpose during retirement, many can suffer depression and feel aimless and aimless in their everyday lives. Engaging in activities that bring you joy while adding value such as volunteering or joining community clubs may provide essential relief from this feeling of meaninglessness.