Aging Well: The 7 Secrets Of Longevity
Statistics tell us that the number of over 100 year olds is constantly increasing. It is therefore legitimate to ask ourselves: what can I do to reach an advanced age in the best conditions? In other words, what’s the secret to aging well?
The factors that intervene in aging are different: genetic inheritance, lifestyle, social fabric built around us. Let’s see the secrets for aging well .
7 secrets to aging well
We are much longer than our ancestors. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), our life expectancy is getting higher. To this contribute to greater attention to health, better living conditions, the progress of medicine and pharmacology.
The importance of genetics
Having “good genes” is a decisive factor, especially when it comes to disease resistance. If there is no history of hereditary disease in the family and our grandparents died old, then genetics are probably in our favor.
A good genetic profile increases the chances of living longer, enjoying better bone structure, smoother skin, and even having greater control over the emotions that lead us to follow certain behavior patterns.
We don’t all age at the same rate
We know, the biological age does not always coincide with the chronological age. In the repatriations between former schoolmates we can observe how the passage of time has been more benevolent with some, less with others.
Aging is a personal experience on which internal and external factors act that shape our lifestyle. The results of these elements are reflected in our physical and emotional aspect.
Healthy nutrition and nutritional needs
Nutrition must be healthy and balanced. Unless the doctor has banned us from certain foods, it is advisable to eat everything giving preference to fresh fruit and vegetables, carbohydrates such as cereals, bread, pasta or rice (preferably wholemeal), dairy products and fish. Instead, fats, sugars and industrial sweets should be limited.
Exercise. Move!
It is never too late to start exercising and fighting a sedentary lifestyle. Strength, flexibility, balance are three pillars on which our health rests. By storing them we increase the likelihood of aging well.
The habit of walking, dancing or practicing any sport helps us to maintain an adequate weight, reduces the risk of contracting diseases such as diabetes or hypertension, strengthens self-esteem and increases the perception of well-being.
Hygiene and physical appearance
Good personal hygiene is essential for health. Cleansing and hydration are the main goals. Oral hygiene, care of skin, hair and even clothes affect our health and our personal image.
Taking care of the physical aspect increases self-esteem and, in turn, strengthens the desire to take care of ourselves. Let’s not forget that the image we offer of us is our business card.
Social life. Let’s get out of the house!
Retirement, children leaving home, the death of a friend or loved one can be the sudden cause of a life marked by loneliness and in many cases true social isolation.
Staying active, taking an interesting course, joining an association or volunteering creates well-being, improves self-esteem and helps us age well.
Mental activity
Sudoku, crossword puzzles, memory games are simple ways to exercise and keep your brain active. The desire to learn new things, to engage in intellectual pursuits or new challenges allows us to remain lucid until an advanced age.
To keep our cognitive abilities in great shape, they need to be exercised, as you do with your muscles.
