Healthy Aging

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Author: Michael Smith, MD, FAAP

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Aging is a process we cannot avoid. However, we all have the opportunity to improve the manner in which we age. Our goal should be to achieve healthy longevity rather than simple longevity.

Science has taught us that there are several areas where we can certainly intervene to make a difference and improve our overall health.

Brain Aging

Maintaining healthy cognitive function is important as we age. Studies have shown that this can be improved through regular brain stimulation. This should ideally be work or learning in an area unfamiliar to you. This may mean learning to play an instrument if you've never done so before, or learning complex math or another challenging activity. Daily use of 

Physical Activity

Undoubtedly, we all experience muscle loss and weakness as part of the aging process. However, this can be mitigated by staying physically active. This must include activities that physically work and strain your muscles several times a week. Additionally, adequate protein intake in our diet has been shown to reduce or even offset muscular atrophy.

Social Interaction

Appropriate social interaction with others is stimulating and found to increase overall happiness as we age. This includes doing activities with family members as well as friends.

Adequate Sleep

Adequate sleep has been demonstrated to be important from a standpoint of our aging health. Sleeping less than seven hours a night has been associated with Alzheimer's and cognitive decline. Additionally, adequate sleep allows both our brains and muscles time to relax and recover from the physical activity described above.

Dietary Intervention

Dietary intervention is critical in maintaining a happy and healthy life as we age. A Mediterranean diet has been proven to be associated with a lower incidence of cognitive decline and mental health issues, as well as a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.

Taking the opportunity to initiate the activities above at the earliest age gives an individual the best possible chance of achieving a long, healthy, and happy life.