Enjoying a happy, active, and healthy life following the age of 60 depends as much on period of health as on age. While many factors are out of control (eg genetics), simple lifestyle changes and habits can positively affect health at any age, but especially for the elderly, according to Eat This Not That.
“In the past, once you got very sick, you were likely to die,” says Daniel Lieberman, a professor of human developmental biology at Harvard University. “But with today’s treatments, we can keep patients alive for decades.” The average life span in the United States is 77 years, while the average healthy lifespan is 63 years, stating that “we have to stop focusing so much on the lifespan and focus more on the healthy period.”
“For those aged 65 to 74, regarding 18% have at least one disability, while nearly 25% of people aged 75 or over have some kind of disability,” explains Professor Linda Schneider. “. Focusing on healthy habits and eliminating harmful habits is essential to enjoying years of good health “free from chronic diseases and hindrance to aging”.
“It may sound logical, but maintaining a healthy balanced diet with moderate and regular exercise and without smoking is the surest way to promote longevity and reduce the onset of most diseases,” says Professor Tim Peterson, stressing that “the Mediterranean diet has broad support to somewhat in the literature.
1. Laziness
Allowing oneself to slip into an increasingly sedentary lifestyle with age is horrible for human health, with some experts even saying that continuous sitting is as much a threat to health as smoking. Not moving enough is linked to premature aging at the cellular level.
2. Weight gain
Interest in maintaining a healthy weight can return decisively following the age of 60. Kilograms can accumulate with age and lead to weight gain or even obesity, says Diana Likalzi, a nutritionist. Therefore, eating more protein and committing to exercise are among the key factors to support musculoskeletal health at any age.
3. An unhealthy diet
Whatever a person’s age, a healthy, nutritious diet can extend their lives. Research shows that the Mediterranean diet can help lower rates of heart disease and extend life.
4. Acceptance of declining brain function
Many people over 60 are either retired or looking to slow down. While this can offer many benefits (such as spending more time with friends and loved ones) it is crucial not to allow brain health to deteriorate during this period. Studies show that retirement can turn the brain into “mush” – a British study tracking 3,400 government employees found that their short-term memory declined 40% faster following retirement.
5. Isolation from friends and family
Maintaining healthy relationships with friends and family as you age is important for health and happiness. Scientific studies confirm what is known to many instinctively, that being part of a community is critical to mental and physical health. Psychologist Bonnie Bates says, “Positive relationships can be just as important as nutrition and physical activity for our health and well-being. Although relationships with others may develop over time, maintaining a strong social network as we age can contribute to a longer life.” And healthier.
