America is aging in large numbers. Eight thousand people reach the age of 60 every day. Demographers, economists and politicians are using terms like "Age-Wave," "Gerontocracy" and "Silver Tsunami" to describe this aging phenomenon.
This kind of fear mongering is not necessary. If we use our brains, we can overcome the demographic and socioeconomic challenges ahead of us. But if we neglect this issue, we will drown. The 20th century gave us longevity. I hope that the 21st century gives us the sense to use it better.
There is plenty of ancient wisdom and modern research to tell us how to do it. "Successful Aging" is a term that has become popular lately through research done in aging over the past three decades. The following are cardinal principles of Successful Aging:
- The Brain: The brain is the most important and influential organ in the aging process because it controls the rest of the body, as well as our behavior. Fortunately, the measures required to keep the brain healthy and sharp also keep almost the entire body healthy. The principle of "use it or lose it" applies to the brain, just as to the rest of the body. The brain develops new cells and new connections in response to challenges posed in interesting situations and in social relationships.
Lifelong learning reduces the risk of dementia by nearly half. There are endless opportunities to learn in everyday life, in community colleges, the internet -- formal settings and informal settings. Creative arts have a powerful influence on brain growth, even in late stages of life. Movement: Exercise may be the most important and effective method of staying as youthful as possible. Just like learning, there are many enjoyable options to do it right. Walking for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week in addition to strength, balance and flexibility training will give the most complete benefits. A person may substitute a variety of activities for each other. Examples of different exercises are free weights, elastic bands, weight machines, Yoga, Tai Chi, sports, hiking, biking and swimming. There are plenty of exercise programs and classes for all budgets. Remember, exercise is essential for preserving brain function. Eating/Nutrition: This is a vital element of good aging. Most of us do not need any special foods. Moderation in eating is the most important step. Sticking to minimally-processed foods, limiting foods from animal sources, and eating a variety of food made from colorful vegetables and fruits, nuts and whole grains will ensure the best of nutrition. If you have special needs, consult with dietitians or nutritionists.
Calorie restriction -- not starvation -- is the only proven technique of prolonging life. Social Life: Meaningful social engagement is critical to our feeling of well-being. Giving and receiving help when needed are very nurturing to the mind and body. Research has confirmed that volunteering for causes you believe in is a great anti-aging and disease-fighting activity. In fact, if we match the aging population to the needs of the needy segments of society through voluntary activities, it will be a win-win situation and will certainly make the "Silver Tsunami" a disappearing act. So go join Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis and other organizations, churches, temples, mosques, hospitals and schools in their social efforts. You will help yourselves a lot -- and others too! Meditation: Meditation gives us power to handle stress and losses, and also stimulates intellectual and memory areas of the brain. Laughter: It is not toxic ... so drink it in large doses! You do not need jokes to laugh in groups. Laugh and more laughter ensues. Laughter is a great stress buster and rejuvenator. Dr. Uday Deoskar is an internist, a geriatric specialist and owner of the Successful Aging Center in Bloomington, Ill. Source: Pantagraph. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. Powered by YellowBrix.
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