Advice for healthy aging

According to US Census projections, by 2030 the proportion of the US population aged 65 and ikder will double to about 71 million people, or one in every five. With a longer life, however, comes increased risk of disease and disability. But poor health is not an inevitable consequence of aging, as much of the illness and disability associated with chronic disease may be avoidable through preventative measures like practicing a healthy lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle includes regular physical activity, healthy eating, avoidance of tobacco use and avoiding stress. In addition, early detection screening for cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure and depression can increase the length and quality of life. A key to a long, healthy, active life is more than inheriting good genes, but requires listening to your body and becoming an active, not passive, conductor of your health, mind and spirit.

A few steps that can be added to an action plan for healthy aging may include:

Exercise for at least 30 minutes daily utilizing a mix of strength training, stretching, aerobics and a total body workout that is easy on the knees.
Practice stress reduction exercises including meditation and yoga, which can be effective in managing high blood pressure and heart disease.
Follow a diet low in fat and high in fiber, containing vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates and protein with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Maintain mental stimulation and brain fitness. Exercise your mide through games, word puzzles, reading and conversation.
Regularly schedule screenings for cholesterol levels, sugar levels and blood pressure, all of which can be controlled through diet, exercise and, if recommended by our physician, medication.
Commit to regularly scheduled routine early detection screenings for cancer - breast, cervical, oral, skin, prostate, colorectal - as well as osteoporosis and other diseases as suggested by your medical team.
Some old cliches should be kept in mind as a philospphy to live by and to reduce stress, such as:
- "Don't sweat the small stuff"
- "Stop and smell the roses"
- "Don't worry, be happy"