Lifestyle
7 Golden Rules of Aging Wisely and Gracefully
There are certain joys and perks that come with aging, from financial stability to greater wisdom that comes with it. But when reality hits, we know that aging can become a source of worry and stress if we don’t fully embrace this season with acceptance, much more if we’re clueless on how to enjoy ourselves when this season comes up in our midst. With this in mind, here are the seven golden rules of aging wisely and gracefully to make the most out of your golden years according to So Sure Bladder Leakage Pad consultant, Phil-US registered dietitian-nutritionist Cheshire Que:
1. Enjoy the life season with positivity – Aging is inevitable. Period. It is a phase that everyone will go through that’s why we need to accept it with gladness. Physiological changes accompany aging. Our bodies will not respond to our environment as they had in our younger years. Studies show that people who are positive and are able to manage stress well tend to be healthier and are less prone to mental health illnesses, mental decline, and heart diseases, so avoid stress and negativity. Let go of anything that causes you stress and surround yourself only with the people that give you a sense of purpose. Take it one step at a time and learn to live in the moment. Don’t over think about what may or may not happen in a few years’ time.
2. Keep moving – Exercise is medicine. It prevents age-related illnesses by improving mobility, flexibility, strength, and blood circulation. Studies show that people who exercise are less likely to feel sluggish and exhausted. They are more energetic than those who just choose to sit at home. Exercise has also been proven to prevent depression and anxiety. It keeps you not only physically but also mentally healthy. In a recent study published in the Journal of Neurology and Clinical Practice, researchers found that a low-intensity exercise for a total of two and a half hours a week works wonders for the brains, which includes cognition, processing speed and attention span, among others. When we reach our 40s, we need to start thinking about the muscles that we don’t pay attention to, like our pelvic floor muscles. “Doing Kegels regularly will strengthen those muscles to prevent bladder leakage or incontinence issues later on,” says Cheshire.
3. Nourish your body with nutrient-rich foods – Eat not just for pleasure but mainly for nourishment. This includes mindfully drinking water throughout the day because the sense of thirst may diminish as we age leaving us at risk of dehydration. Drinking water also helps flush out toxins that speed up aging. Food choices must be centered on minimally processed foods and more on whole foods from whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and healthy fats. “When it comes to clean eating, enjoying a variety of food in moderation will ensure our bodies are well-nourished,” said Cheshire. “This also means that the older population should not adhere to any type of fad diet as they’re restricted to certain types of food, which will only prevent them from taking in essential nutrients that they need,” she added.
4. Practice sleep hygiene – Sleeping hours may decrease as we age but quality sleep is very important. It is during sleep when the body is most able to repair itself. Keep a regular sleeping pattern that is aligned with the body’s circadian rhythm, also known as, body clock. This prevents hormonal imbalances that are associated with chronic illnesses. Have a downtime 1 hour before bedtime in a relaxing, sleep-promoting environment that is quiet, cold and dark.
5. Nourish your mind and soul – One of the best ways to maintain mental acuity is by keeping the mind engaged. Listening to music, reading, doing art, cooking, and other hobbies do not just help keep up one’s well-being. They also help in maintaining the sharpness of mind. Likewise, nourishing the soul through spirituality gives wisdom and a sense of purpose in the golden years.
6. Visit your doctor regularly – To manage age-related illnesses and concerns, the role of a physician specializing in the care of mature and older adults is vital. Cheshire also added that “a regular trip to the doctor’s office will ensure prevention and protection while maintaining the quality of life.” As an added advice to children looking after aging parents or relatives, Cheshire mentioned as well to never embarrass them when we see changes in their bodies and with their behavior. “Instead, encourage them to open up about what they feel and speak up if they notice any changes in their body.”
7. Take proper nutrient supplementation – Mature and older people are at risk of nutrient deficiencies which lead to decreased functionality and quality of life. Vitamin D, Calcium, Vitamin C, Omega 3, fiber and even amino acids may be some of the nutrients that need to be considered. “The bottom line is to always seek guidance and supervision of a physician and a dietitian, don’t just buy something because of what you’ve heard or read. Risk for nutrient deficiencies must be addressed with individualized supplementation,” noted Cheshire.
With the proper perspective and education on how to age in a healthy way, aging will not become an obstacle to one’s goals. However, in a report published by US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 50 percent of the older population is experiencing incontinence or the inability to control urinating, and women are particularly vulnerable. Those with incontinence leave an impact on them physically, socially, and mentally because the condition restricts their activities, thus substantially reducing their quality of life. Aside from proper medication, and possible surgical procedures for severe cases, an incontinence pad like So Sure Bladder Leakage Pad is a practical lifesaver for the sufferers: hugs securely but discreetly without the thickness of a diaper, 3x more absorbent than a regular pad, anti-bacterial with odor control features, and only made of breathable, skin-friendly cotton material! Additionally, it’s unisex and available in two variants, 340 mm for light drips or spurts and 450 mm for burst or surges to ensure comfort and protection throughout the day. Remember, a menstrual pad is not meant for urine leaks as it’s not designed to hold a rapid urine flow.
Don’t let a medical condition or aging-related problems such as bladder leakage stop you from achieving all that you can. So Sure Bladder Leakage Pads are designed for optimum absorbency of bladder leakage without the bulky feel of an adult diaper.
Visit www.sosurepads.ph for more information. Follow @sosurepadsph on Facebook and Instagram for tips, tricks, and other information you need to know about your bladder leakage condition. Shop now at www.lazada.com.ph and at all leading Mercury Drug outlets nationwide. For inquiries, email: info@sosurepads.ph or call (02) 4701294.