Feel good about yourself as you get older with these strategies…
Noticing that first wrinkle or grey hair can be traumatic. The ageing process is an unfortunate part of life, and though there are lots of strategies that can help you turn back the clock and hold onto your youthful appearance, having a positive attitude towards ageing can help you live a happier, more fulfilling life. We’ve put together some ideas to help you get started…
Focus on your physical health
As we age, our health becomes even more important to us. It’s essential to have regular medical checkups to ensure your body is fit and healthy. Blood tests can establish your cholesterol levels, blood pressure checks can help to prevent high blood pressure, which can damage your heart and increase your chances of a heart attack, and breast screenings can help detect early signs of breast cancer. The sooner you’re checked, the better. You should also consider tests for bowel cancer (80% of cases involve over 60s), have a cervical smear to detect abnormal cells, and eye tests to detect signs of diabetes and glaucoma.
We get it: visiting the doctor isn’t fun, but it’s important to look after your body now more than ever. The sooner problems are diagnosed, the less likely you are to suffer in the long-term.
Consider adopting a dog
Whether your kids have flown the nest and you’re feeling lonely or you’re starting a new life after a messy divorce, getting a dog is a great idea. Research has revealed that animals can reduce stress levels, with dog owners reporting higher self-worth and esteem. The benefits of owning a dog are physical, too: you’ll have improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and bones, and less stress. Dog owners, on average, exercise more than non-dog owners, and owning a dog is a great way to meet new people, learn new skills, and boost the immune system. The hardest part is deciding on a name for your pooch!
Spend more time outdoors
We all know that Vitamin D is good for our mental and physical wellbeing, and fresh air can clear the cobwebs and make us feel good. As we age, we need even more vitamin D to assist with our bone health. Not getting enough could even result in cancers and multiple sclerosis. Make the effort to get outside at least once a day, with or without your new dog, and make the most of life. Once you get into the habit, it’ll become something you look forward to, and the health benefits will make it worthwhile and keep you feeling at your best.
Keep the spark alive
Your sex life shouldn’t peter out just because you’re ageing. The truth is that sex in your 60s won’t be the same as it was in your 20s, but in some ways, it can be better. You’ll have more confidence and self-awareness, and you might still be with a partner who’s been with you through the good times and bad. Organise regular date nights with your other half, or sign up to an online dating website, and maintain an active love life. Research has shown that sex can fight colds and flu, it burns calories, reduces the risk of heart disease, and regulates your hormone levels. It can also cure headaches, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of prostate and breast cancers. Healthline has rounded up some of the biggest benefits.
Watch your weight
Did you know that obesity accelerates the ageing process? If you want to look and feel your best as you get older, it’s vital that you maintain a healthy weight and partake in regular physical exercise. You should aim to be physically active every day, and focus on activities that can improve your strength and balance. Too much fat around your internal organs can release inflammatory chemicals which cause arthritis and diabetes, so go on a slow and steady weight loss journey, keeping a balanced diet. Challenge yourself to try new foods; the chances are that there’s a dish or recipe that you’ve yet to experiment with, and might love.
Drink – even when you’re not thirsty
Unfortunately, we don’t mean cocktails! Drinking water is so important, especially as you get older, as your body’s composition changes. Although 60 to 75 percent of our bodies are made of water, over 50s retain less of it. We also lose more water passing urine, and have weakened thirst sensations. Aim to drink at least two litres of water per day. Look at ways you can up your water intake without needing to pop to the toilet every five minutes. Eat foods that are hydrating such as oranges, lettuce, strawberries, and watermelons, and avoid diuretics such as soft drinks, green tea, coffee a couple of hours before bedtime.
Fall in love with your garden
This one might be trickier as the weather gets colder. However, spending more time in the garden is a great way to remain fit and healthy. Not only is the great outdoors good for your mental health, but it reduces your risk of strokes. It burns calories, relieves stress, improves your immune system, and helps you live in the moment. It’s also considered free anger therapy, which is no doubt needed in today’s challenging times. Gardening is also known to decrease the chances of osteoporosis and dementia. The best part is the peace and quiet!
Follow your dreams
Research has found that having goals is good for your mental and physical health. It gives you something to strive towards, whether saving for a holiday home or losing some weight. You’re never too old to try something new. Consider joining a new hobby group or spending some time travelling the world. The best way to get the most out of life and enjoy yourself is to push yourself out of your comfort zone. It might seem scary, but you’ll soon be glad you did. From volunteering to saying “yes”, make it your mission to take life in a new direction.
The tips we have offered in this article are designed to help you feel good about yourself as you age. If you’re worried about fine lines and wrinkles, you can depend on the anti-ageing device from Oralift, designed to offer a natural facelift, without surgery. Let us know what you think and check back to the blog soon for more tips and tricks on living life to the full.