The Things Everyone Should Know About Aging

Dr. Purushothaman
September 9, 2013

It has sometimes been said that aging is inevitable, but that looking old is optional! Although we all age, we deal with it in different ways, with different results. So what are some of the secrets of those enviable people who manage to look far younger than their years?

Determine how much sleep your body needs a night and then make sure you get it. Lack of good regular sleep is a possible cause of premature aging. Just because you're getting older does not mean that you need less sleep. Our bodies function better when they have had a full night's sleep. Studies have shown that it is very hard to recover from a sleep deficit so keep to a pattern as much as possible.

Having close relationships as you age is important. Being an active community member has been shown to extend a person's lifespan and keep them healthier. Build the bonds of intimacy with the people closest to you, and have someone you can really talk to. Your social connections are very important as you age.

Have your hormone levels checked regularly as you age. You will want to have your doctor run standardized tests to be sure that your levels are where they should be. Taking hormone replacement or supplements may be the fix to the way that you have been feeling if you have been feeling bad.

Take the time to be grateful for the things that you have in your life. Each day before you get out of bed, stop and think about at least five things that you are thankful for. This can be your health, family, friends or any other little thing that you appreciate in life.

While your body may not feel as spry as it used to when you were younger, you will still want to get exercise to keep it working at top capacity. Exercising feels good because it releases endorphins, which makes you feel good. A quick walk around the block or even around the mall will have you feeling better in no time.

Make sure you're keeping hydrated. Your body relies heavily on water and if you're not getting enough of it, your skin is the first part of your body to suffer. This can lead to dry, lifeless skin and premature wrinkles. Not only that, but it can lead to internal problems as well. So make sure you're drinking enough water each day!

Everyone says it is good to remain active in your old age. This is true. It is also true that this is the right time to step back and contemplate life. What was truly valuable? What was a waste of time? What would you advise your grandchildren to do?

There is no magic pill to reverse aging. There is no snake water magic potion for a youthful appearance. Making healthy changes to your lifestyle and diet can give you a zestful approach to living. Remember that issues due to aging takes a lifetime to develop so it will not be reversed overnight when you start giving your body what it needs.

A good way to reduce the impact of lines around the eyes is to wear sunglasses. Not only does this prevent squinting and causing crows feet, but sunglasses block the sun from hitting those high wrinkle areas and damaging the skin. So wearing sunglasses has a dual effect on the anti-aging process.

Include more fiber in your diet by including more whole grains and vegetables as you become older. Your digestive system becomes more sensitive as you age, so it is important to make sure that the foods you eat are easily digested. Keeping your digestive system in good working order will prevent many health problems.

If you are going to be going out in the summer, make sure to apply a coat of sunscreen to your face and neck. The sun can have damaging affects if you are exposed for a long time and can lead to leathery skin in the future. Apply a coat of sunscreen to slow down the aging process.

Begin to really protect your hair while aging. Damaging habits can contribute to hair loss even more significantly while aging. Try to avoid using curling irons and harsh chemicals on your hair. Air dry your hair when you can and save fancy hair styles for big occasions.

Periodically assess your ability to drive. You may be able to drive well into old age as long as you periodically monitor your ability to do so. Have your eyes and ears checked, don't drive at night if it makes you uncomfortable and make sure your medications don't affect your driving.

Cholesterol is a killer, so take the steps to lower your cholesterol. We absorb cholesterol not only from the foods we eat, but genes can pass high cholesterol also. For a longer life, go to your doctor and have your cholesterol checked and take any medications prescribed. Diet, exercise, and medications can all contribute to getting your cholesterol in check.

One of the best ways you can do in order to slow down the aging process in your body is to eat a balanced diet daily. Be sure to have a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grain, and fiber. A balanced diet will help you maintain optimum health.

If your goal is to age gracefully and with dignity, it is our hope that the contents of this article have been helpful to you. You are, after all, only as old as you feel! So if you still feel young at heart, let that reflect in how you look!

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