Thrive with Proactive Aging

Across the world, people are living longer than ever before. However, according to the World Health Organization, “evidence suggests the proportion of life in good health has remained broadly constant, implying that the additional years are in poor health.” Taking a proactive approach to aging can help us live full, energetic, and healthy lives no matter how many years we have lived.

As the Director of Wellness at The Boulevard Senior Living of Wentzville, I emphasize proactive aging by shifting the focus from age to longevity.

Older adults can mitigate stress and anxiety by prioritizing self-care, maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate rest, and fostering strong social connections. Stress and anxiety, if unchecked, can have detrimental effects on health as one ages, increasing the risk of conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity.

Barriers to maintaining preventive care may include lack of insurance coverage, high costs, or limited access to healthcare services. However, the benefits of preventive care are significant, including improved overall health and a reduced risk of diseases.

Encouraging proactive thinking about health involves leading by example and demonstrating the importance of prioritizing health and well-being.

It is never too late to invest in your health. Taking control of our well-being can be the difference between surviving and thriving, the difference between extra years of truly living and extra years in decline. Make your years count. Approach aging proactively and use those extra years to get another degree, take up a new hobby, break a record, or explore opportunities you never thought you would get to experience.

World Health Organization: Aging and Health, click here to read the full article.