I feel I am aging fast! What is the most challenging part of aging and how do I cope with it?

I feel I am aging fast! What is the most challenging part of aging and how do I cope with it? 

How can I age with grace and still have a happy and healthy life? 

For many of us, getting on in years means the days of being able to run a marathon, to eat whatever we want, or to do extreme sports are done. 

But this does not equate to having a limited ability to enjoy life. It may just mean that older adults have to find ways to adapt with the changes that old age brings, while still living a happy  and meaningful life. 

Modern society tends to look at the negative side of aging, but a lot of older adults actually feel increased satisfaction with their quality of life as they age.

Planning to be in your best shape yet, mentally, physically and emotionally

Studies have shown that older adults who look at aging with hope or a positive perception are much inclined to experience enjoyment in doing their activities of daily living and they tend to live longer compared to those who are less optimistic.

Preparing for old age and the changes it brings is key to overall well being. 

Common expectations and assumptions about getting older

• Expecting a long lifespan and a season of harvest

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that the average lifespan in the US is 76.4 years old, with women living longer at 79.3 years and men at 73.5 years old. Some would even live past their 90th and 95th birthday. 

This long life expectancy in the US reminds us that there is still a season for “harvest” for older people; a season wherein we can enjoy the fruits of our labor in our younger years. 

• Expecting changes in our physical health 

Accumulated life experiences come with adjusting our lifestyle based on our physical capacities. Changes in hearing, vision, strength and mobility are part of aging. 

Thus older people can benefit from both disease prevention and health promotion practices. 

• Assess your current lifestyle and continue the healthy habits like physical activity, sleep hygiene and a nutritious diet. 
• Engage in preventive health behaviors like disease screenings. 
• Keep a record of your health-maintaining activities, medications, etc. and have a regular conversation with your health care provider to learn how to take care of yourself better. 

1. Expecting changes in our mental abilities

Wisdom from a long life and your life experiences will continue to give value to you and those around you. 

• Recognize that there will be changes in how you view yourself, in your personality, in how you view and value your spiritual life, and in your ability to manage stress and emotions. 
• Consider being mentally and emotionally invested in caring for younger people. Studies have shown that developing connections with those younger than you can increase your sense of meaning and purpose. 
• Engage in activities that you are passionate about like your hobbies in order to derive joy and hope and to continue strengthening your mental abilities. 
• Find a community where you can seek support and help you cope with stressors. Studies show that isolation and lack of social support increase risk for anxiety and depression.

As long as there is still breath, there are many ways to find purpose and meaning in life. While gray hairs and wrinkles are  becoming more prominent, we have a choice to enter into this season dragging our feet, or with a great sense of expectation that there is more to life. More wisdom, joy, hope and relationships are still waiting to be enjoyed!

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