While aging is inevitable, we can all choose how we age. While we all try to delay aging it happens whether we’d like it to or not. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to make the most out of your life, whatever age you are. And it’s possible to keep your independence while you do it.
Here are some top tips for aging gracefully and keeping your independence:
Enjoy what you eat
We’re always told what we should eat and drink, and old age is no exception. While we should all reduce our amounts of alcohol, fat, sugar, and salt, there’s no need to take all of the enjoyment out of dining. Food should be a source of pleasure and a chance to connect with others. Getting older will allow you to occasionally have a glass of wine or piece of chocolate cake- as long as you keep an eye on your portion sizes.
Meditate and rest
By the time you retire, you’ve likely spent a large portion of your life working. While your senior years allow you to enjoy the results of that labor, it can often make retirees fee lost. Going from a daily routine to having lots of time on your hands can impact your mental and physical health. Practicing mindfulness and mediation can be a great way to ensure you get a great sleep and feel more in control.
You also have an excellent opportunity to pick up a variety of leisure activities. Maybe you’d like to take up new hobby like drawing or painting, or you’d like to learn a language or a musical instrument. Go to movies, musicals, art galleries, and museums. Volunteer your time, participate in local councils, and enjoy the time you now have on your hands.
Make your home accessible
If you’re like most people, you probably want to stay in your own home for as long as you can. There are a few things you can do to keep yourself safe in your home. If you use a walker, make sure you have plenty of space to get around and you’ve removed any clutter. If you have a two-storied house, you can still stay independent with a stair lift. And make sure you’ve prepared the bathroom with plenty of grab bars, non-slip mats, and more.
Are you planning to old gracefully? Leave a comment below.