Each stage of life has its own challenges. As we live longer, it is important to learn to identify the different demands of each phase: being 65 is not the same as being 85, and the aim is to make each period of life the most satisfying and enjoyable.
Active ageing is a concept that refers to the different aspects and practices that improve our quality of life as we get older. It involves maximising the opportunities and resources available in health, social participation and security so that we continue to be involved in all aspects of life and contribute to our communities and groups while maintaining different degrees of independence based on our physical and mental abilities. It is about enjoying living regardless of age.
The Pillars of Active Aging
Active ageing focuses on caring for and supporting those aspects that are recognized as key to a person’s well-being at any stage of life and that, therefore, we cannot neglect when we get older. These include physical health with regular physical activity and prioritizing mental well-being to promote cognitive abilities and emotional stability. It is also essential to promote social connections and community participation since they help us maintain meaningful roles and a sense of purpose and belonging, which are crucial for mental well-being and combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. In addition, constantly learning new content, skills, or abilities is a source of mental well-being, especially when it is shared or enjoyed with others, and we see their value even more.
Guide for healthy and longer living
Add regular physical exercise to your daily routine, such as walking, swimming, yoga, or strength training. It will help you have more energy, build strength, and improve heart health. 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week is a good routine.
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and healthy fats and stay hydrated. Try to eat every 3 or 4 hours, balancing the quantity based on your body’s needs; it will help you maintain energy levels and not go hungry. Without taking care of our diet, we won’t be able to achieve excellent results in terms of performance, health, and physical and mental well-being in the medium and long term. Signing up for cooking classes is always a good idea to learn or improve one’s cooking skills while helping to plan a nutritious diet and socialize.
Plan your annual health check-ups to prevent and address health problems early. Participate in activities that stimulate you both cognitively and emotionally, whether it’s playing with others outdoors or indoors, reading content that interests you, learning something new from a language or an instrument, taking dancing classes, singing in a choir, painting, gardening, or joining a volunteer group. You can also learn mindfulness, meditation and relaxation techniques to help you manage stress and improve mental well-being.
Keep socially engaged. We cannot stress enough how important this is for our overall well-being. Schedule regular phone or video calls with friends and family members if you cannot meet in person often.
Don’t delay planning financially. Get help or consult financial advisors or different agencies (banks, insurance providers, etc). Gather the information you need to make decisions. Don’t rush; just pursue a financial plan to maintain stability and avoid distress in later years.
Remember, it is never late to start making positive changes in life, those that lead to a healthier, happier, and more active ageing experience, and please, don’t forget to seek professional help to address concerns and barriers when you physically or psychologically don’t feel well.
Written by: Ana Gomez