Mentally, it is normal for people to view themselves to be 10-15 years younger than they really are. But physically, one cannot deny the changes their body goes through as they grow older. If one tries to deny these changes they can endanger themselves by not seeking proper medical attention. Many times people experience changes that require medical care but write it off to just “growing old”. Unfortunately, they chose to accept and live with limitations when a quick trip to the doctor could allow them to live normal lives or in some cases identify life-threatening conditions before they become a serious illness.
So, just what is “normal aging”? Normal aging is the changes a body experiences, as it grows older. Some of these changes are quite obvious such as more trips to the bathroom at night, changes in eyesight and hearing and dulling of the senses of taste, touch and smell. As the body metabolism changes, fat deposits shift not only what one can see visually but also shifting to surround the internal organs. Internal organs such as kidney, heart, and lung functions decrease as the body ages. Cognitive abilities change as we age. There can be a tendency to become more forgetful, misplace items, and find ourselves searching for words that “slip past us”.
There are also social and emotional changes that take place and are almost unnoticeable but yet have a major impact on how one ages. As we grow older we tend to be exposed to more losses. This could be loss in the form of a loved one’s death, or it can be the loss of one’s ability to function at a level they are accustomed to. If we have lost our driver’s license we find ourselves removed from our circle of friends and activities. This loss of independence can be overwhelming for some.
The good news is that there are natural ways to slow down the aging process and at the same time add to the quality of life as we age. Eating healthy and nutritious meals with a balance of vegetables, grains, dairy products, and low fat meats will reduce the risk of heart disease while limiting fat intake. Studies have shown that as one experiences the dulling of the senses they also loose the sense of thirst. Older adults are encouraged to drink more water and less caffeine and soda. Physical activities not only build muscle and bone mass but also can build one’s self-esteem. Physical activities held in conjunction with a social environment are not only healthy but also stimulating and fun.
Today more than ever society, service providers, and our government recognizes the needs of the aging population. Benefit specialists at County Health and Human Services can assist people on a variety of aging issues. The local YMCA’s have an Active Older Adult program that combines physical activities with a relaxing social environment. Senior Centers provide a safe environment where people can gather to play cards, shoot pool, learn computer skills, and catch up on the latest news. Service providers that specialize in non-medical care for people wishing to “age in place” at home are more available than in the past. Certified Senior Advisors (CSA®) are more in demand as people seek advice from professionals who specialize in the complex issues of aging.
Embracing and accepting the aging process will not only make life easier, but also more fun. Trying to deny it will consume us in our own despair and anger. Personally, I feel growing old brings a lot of perks with it. Remember….IT’S ALL ABOUT ATTITUDE!!
and President of Home Helpers. Home Helpers is the leading provider for in-home non-medical care. Visit Home Helpers at www.HomeHelpers.CC and visit our blog site at www.homecareexpert.blogspot.com/ to receive caregiving tips for family members caring for loved ones.
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