We all want to know the secrets of ageing well. With the advances in medicine and science, we are living longer than ever before. But your goal should be not to just live longer, but to also live a much happier and healthier life.
You might well think that by keeping an eye on your cholesterol and lowering the amount of stress in your life you are in good shape. While this is a good start, there are other areas to consider which can benefit your body, mind and soul. Why not follow our ten top tips to stay younger for longer?
1. Eat a well-balanced diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy foods and limit your intake of processed foods such as take-away foods, cakes and pastries.
2. Be physically active, aim to exercise for 30 minutes a day by going for a walk or a bicycle ride, playing a game of tennis or golf. Make sure it is something you enjoy doing so it becomes a habit.
3. Avoid cigarettes. By not smoking or quitting smoking you increase your life expectancy and your quality of life.
4. Get regular health and dental checkups. By seeing your doctor and dentist regularly, every six months is recommended, you can catch any potential problems before they become serious health issues.
5. Be SunSmart. You will minimise wrinkling, ageing of the skin and the risk of eye damage.
6. Drink in moderation, up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men
7. Create a strong social network of family and friends
8. Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can lead to health problems such as diabetes
9. Stay mentally active – try brainteasers, crosswords, Sudoku, trivia or challenging literature every day.
10. Keep a positive attitude. You will probably live a longer life, but will guarantee it’s happier for you and those who love you.
It’s never too late to make changes towards a happier and healthier lifestyle. As George Burns quipped “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old”.
