Self-help information to improve life and health of adults and aging parents.

    A New Paradigm for Successful Aging
                 by Joanne Hill, MSW

     New research studies based on records of those people who have lived long and well, including the ever growing population of centenarians, have enabled professionals to identify the factors that impact on successful aging. Besides the blessings of good genetic codes, older adults may now set new life goals based on their own choices to improve the quality and longevity of their lives. These so called life-style choices are holistic in nature because they encompass the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual attributes of one's life. The overall well-being of older adults, to a large extent, rests in their ability to learn how to age well and put this knowledge into regular use. Since this topic is an entire field of study (gerontology), this article will only point out some of the major findings that older adults may consider and continue to research. The federal government provides free publications through the National Institutes on Aging and Health which are and up-to-date. For catalogs, call 800-222-2225 or visit www.nih.gov/nia.

        The creation of healthy habits is important for physical and mental well-being for all adults. Eating nutritionally, avoiding cigarettes and alcohol abuse, excercising daily, and living adaptively all foster good health at any age. Even older adults can improve the status of their health by starting new regimens with the guidance of their physician. By maintaining appropriate body weight and participating in excercises that strengthen muscles, improve balance, gait and endurance, elders in their 70's-90's can improve the quality of their lives. The website MyPyramid.gov sponsored by USDA provides information about healthy food choices, daily calorie intake and menus based on a person's age, weight and activity level. Anyone with medical problems should consult their physician before starting a new diet. Everyday activities such as walking a dog, gardening, housecleaning, and stretching help an elder maintain mobility. For professional guidance, many physical fitness centers and senior programs offer Silver Sneakers, Tai Chi and Yoga classes that are designed for older adults. Of course, brisk walking outdoors and playing with grandchildren are free. The benefits of exercise include: extension of life, reduction of stress, keeping mobility, reducing the risks of diabetes and heart disease, and improving sleep, memory and moods! Sometimes in our appearance oriented culture, the true value of staying physically fit is forgotten.

          Living adapatively is a way of life for most centenarians. Having a positive attitude, knowing how to accept things that cannot be changed, and maintaining a sense of humor all contribute to longevity. Keeping an open mind, growing with cultural changes and learning from younger generations keep the mind agile and a person dynamic. Having friends and family to care about and interact with foster mental health and a sense of connectedness with the world. Elders who are homebound should consider companion care as a personal resource to accomplish social contact on a regular basis. Developing a spiritual life at church, home or in the community may also provide some elders with the strength to face challenges in
their lives and lead happier lives.

           Aging well means that growing old is not to be feared, unrewarded or resented. Slowly new positive definitions and ideas about growing old successfully are evolving in the 21st century, so that being old will no longer be denied by older adults (60+). In 1874, Henri Amiel wrote: "To know how to grow old is the masterwork of wisdom, and one of the most difficult chapters in the great art of living." Now 21st century knowledge is paving the way for our success!