Positive aging is a term used to describe the process of maintaining a positive attitude, feeling
good about yourself, keeping fit and healthy, and engaging fully in life as you age.
Aging is often associated with many rewarding experiences. It is however also a time when
significant changes might occur. For example, some people experience changes in physical
functioning, social networks, employment, and bereavement can become more common.
Keeping a positive attitude toward aging is particularly important as it allows you to continue to
feel good and have a sense of control as you face another part of the life cycle. As people age it
is natural for them
to move in and out of periods of positive aging. Those who age positively live longer and
healthier lives, and enjoy a good quality of life.
Strategies to achieve positive ageing :
There are a number of ways to prevent, delay or manage some of the physical, psychological,
social
and personal challenges people face as they age – some of these are described below.
Maintaining a positive attitude :
The way you feel about yourself and the ageing process can affect how
you view life and the extent to which you are involved in activities and
the opportunities life offers. If you can make choices and have control
over important aspects of your life, and take part in and enjoy activities,
you are more likely to feel good about yourself and get more out of life.
Staying connected :
Social interaction and relationships with others are associated with
positive ageing and feeling optimistic about life. Maintaining social
networks through membership of clubs, engaging in voluntary work
and keeping in touch with family encourages interaction with others,
prevents isolation and promotes good mental health and physical
activity..
Keeping the brain active :
Keeping the brain active, alert and flexible can promote good mental
health and positive ageing throughout the lifespan. Having an active
mind can be as simple as reading a book, learning a new hobby or
problem solving (e.g. doing crosswords). Learning new skills is exercise
for the brain and makes it work a little harder.
Managing stress :
Stress is a natural part of life. While a little stress can be beneficial, when things become too
much
and usual methods of coping fail, stress may become unhealthy.
The symptoms of stress vary greatly among different individuals. High levels of stress can
produce
emotional, behavioral, and even physical symptoms. In addition to affecting general wellbeing,
stress can also impair the immune system and increase the risk of physical and mental health
problems.
Significant changes associated with ageing can cause both short term and chronic stress.
Stress can be
caused by everyday hassles or be a result of difficult relationships, adjusting to retirement,
financial
concerns or chronic illness.
Keeping as free from stress as possible, and learning how to effectively cope with unavoidable
stress,
can promote positive ageing in all areas of your life.
Some good ways to manage stress and cope with daily hassles include:
Thinking positively. Stay focused on the positives and use strategies that have worked in the
past to relieve stress such as problem solving or goal setting.
Looking after yourself. Do some physical activity, get quality rest and eat well.
Seeking support. Share your thoughts with a friend or family member, they may be able to
help you develop coping strategies.
Being calm. Take some deep breaths. Use meditation and relaxation techniques to relax your
body and clear your mind.
Volunteering or seeking part-time employment
Many older people find part-time employment or voluntary work rewarding and a chance to give
something back to the community. Any type of work can help to keep your mind sharp and can
provide a social network outside of the home and family.
Engaging in physical activity :
Regular physical activity is vital for improved health and wellbeing. It is never too late to get
moving -
the human body responds to exercise, regardless of age. Exercise is a great way to maintain
good
health, helps you thinking positively, recover from illness and reduce the risk of disease. It has
been
demonstrated that physical fitness is more important than weight loss.
Strength training is especially beneficial. It can help to build and maintain healthy bones,
muscles and
joints, which in turn will increase physical strength, and improve balance and mobility.
