Ageing healthily in mind and body

We are all going to grow old no matter what we do and ageing healthily is a subject in great discussion these days as we are all living longer. However aging healthily is not solely about physical health - mental health is also important and one way of ageing healthily in the mind is to be socially healthy.

With the onset of older age, retirement, the passing away of close friends and spouses, loneliness can creep in and that can be the killer, both metaphorically and literally.

So what can we all, as a society, do to stop the loneliness of old age?
If you an elderly relative, don’t forget them, assuming they are just getting on with their own life? Take the time to drive them to local activities if they can’t get around. Check in regularly with elderly neighbours. If you are an active, gregarious elderly person, keep in touch with your less gregarious friends and persuade them to join you in various activities.
When you retire, don’t let that be the end of your social life. Join clubs - fitness classes for 50+, art classes, gardening clubs…the list is endless and you will find something that is perfect for you. While physical activity of some sort is ideal to be fitted into your life, the fact that you go out and socialise, making new friends, is equally important for healthy aging.
No sitting around and bemoaning the fact that your life is over and you are not useful anymore - get out there and enjoy your old age. It can be exhilarating to have the freedom of no job and no day to day worries such as getting dinner ready for offspring. Maybe you could look after grandchildren on the odd occasion to help keep you young, but don’t offer on a regular basis as you could get taken advantage of and miss out on the freedom element that your advancing years has afforded you.

Some people find that retirement is not as enjoyable as they thought as they no longer have that daily job to attend. Research has also shown that people who find meaning and purpose in their lives through a variety of activities tend to remain socially active, and live longer, happier, healthier lives. If this is the case, volunteering is a great way to stay involved and connected. Volunteer at church, the local school, caring charities etc and not only will you make new friends, you will remain animated and full of life.

Someone of the ripe old age of 87 once said about growing old that adhering to the following principles would keep mind and body active and healthy:

1. Learn to accept what cannot be changed.
2. See beauty in each person, each day.
3. Laugh - see humour in unusual circumstances.
4. Express love and accept in return.
5. Exercise your mind and body daily.
6. Develop a lively imagination.
7. Volunteer expecting no repayment.

These sound like good principles to follow - the main axiom is to live life to the full!

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