May 10, 2024
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 Vitalia Westlake, I actively promote proactive aging through adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and effective stress management techniques. Research indicates that individuals who embrace a healthier lifestyle are less prone to health issues such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity.
Individuals can alleviate stress and anxiety by participating in various activities. They can join support groups to openly discuss thoughts and feelings, engage in regular physical exercise, ensure adequate sleep, and practice yoga. If left unchecked, stress and anxiety can negatively impact mental health and cognitive performance. Additionally, it can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Barriers to maintaining preventive care include:
Seeking preventive care aids in reducing the risk of chronic diseases, disabilities, and mortality. Yearly screenings and counseling services are among the many preventive measures available.
Encouraging individuals to be proactive is most effective when demonstrated through personal example. Leading by example and highlighting the benefits of proactive behavior serve as persuasive tools to motivate others.
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.
VITALIA® Westlake in Westlake, OH offers independent living +, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near UH St. John Medical Center and Cleveland Clinic Avon with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Meadowood Golf Course, Crocker Park, Clague Playhouse, Porter Library, Westlake Rec Center, Sibling Revelry Brewery, Bradley Woods Reservation, Huntington Reservation, and White Oaks Restaurant.
