Ageing is often associated with many different experiences but it is also a time when changes to body and occur such as changes to physical function, contracting social networks and so on. Keeping a positive attitude towards ageing is crucial as it can improve physical and mental health. It also enables us to maintain a sense of control and improve quality of life. It's all about aging gracefully. I always felt when treating patients, that the aches and pains of aging where a trade-off for a long life. Living long comes with a price tag . Ways of limiting that price comes with making an effort to stay active and eating healthy.
The concept of positive ageing is about making the most of the benefits of ageing and keeping a good attitude about life. It keeps a positive growth mindset throughout older age same as other phases of life, regardless of challenges or opportunities. Having a positive attitude during times of loss or change can help to make life experiences easier and more satisfying. Positive ageing covers different life experiences such as health, financial security, self-fulfilment and living environments. Many cultures still maintain negative ideas about ageing and if we can bring a positive attitude towards ageing, this greatly decreases the odds of ill health and depression. It is never too late to start living an active lifestyle and enjoying the benefits.
Here are some tips that may help you achieve a healthier, stronger body that can withstand old age.
It is important to be mindful of your fitness level and ensure that you remain physically active. It is recommended for those aged 65 and over, at least 30 minutes a day of moderate exercise for at least five days a week. This can be either moderate or intense exercise whether it’s going to the gym, taking a walk or even weeding in the garden.
Having a good posture keeps the body aligned and helps avoid excessive strain on the back muscles, it improves mobility, spinal health and quality of life. Try your best to keep your spine in a neutral position instead of slouching or hunching. It is also advisable to avoid sitting or standing in the same position for long period of time. It can be difficult to be mindful of your posture at all times so it may be a good idea to set alarms to remind you about sitting right, stretching, taking breaks and improving your posture.
Regular stretching can help maintain joint flexibility, improve stability and relieve stiff muscles. It can also help increasing range of motion of different parts of the body. It is crucial to perform stretches correctly, take extra care when doing stretches that require balancing and make sure to modify stretches to suit your ability level. Consult a chiropractor to gain a better understanding of how to perform stretches correctly and find out which stretches are best for you.
Loneliness has psychophysiological consequences, including risk-taking, poor sleep quality, cognitive decline, and cardiac and cerebrovascular disease, which have an impact on morbidity and mortality. Participation in social engagement can assist in ameliorating social isolation and loneliness. Benefits have been attained from social activities involving creative, educational and group support interventions. It is vital to spend time out of the house meeting likeminded friends as there is a positive link between people’s social networks and their health behaviours. Some ways to do this could include volunteering or taking up a new hobby. Family life also plays a key part in positive ageing.
Having meaning in your life can lead to reduced stress, improved coping techniques and greater engagement in health- promoting behaviours. In fact, having a sense of purpose can add up to your life expectancy. Finding meaning is often something people struggle with post- retirement as the sense of purpose is strongly tied to the structure and commitment of work. However, retirement offers a wonderful opportunity to discover new passions and focus our time on things that are important to you.
At Lakeside Chiropractic in Perth Northern Suburbs, we utilise a number of treatment modalities which are backed by scientific evidence and tailor treatment plans to each individual to incorporate advice and exercises to optimise your health and wellbeing. Our chiropractors here in Joondalup can refer you for x-rays that are bulk billed and assist with any pain related to aging. For more information about the aches and pains of aging, give us a call on 9300 0095 or visit our website at www.lakesidechiro.com.au to book an appointment.
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