For some older adults, age is just a number, but for others, age is a barrier. Fortunately, the good news is that age doesn’t have to define you – and you don’t have to let it!
These days, older adults are breaking the boundaries of what we expect about the aging population, and to that we say it’s about time. Today, we look to seniors as a source of knowledge, a standard to live up to, and what graceful, positive aging can look like as the years pass.
So how do we attain graceful aging? While many older adults make it look effortless, it takes plenty of intentional work and effort. Follow our tips to find out what you can do now to help yourself age gracefully in the future.
Tips for Aging Gracefully
Avoid negative stereotypes around aging.
Have you ever heard that older people go to bed early, have a limited social life, follow a rigid routine, have a wide range of health problems, or are generally grumpy? Usually, these are simply stereotypes cast onto seniors.
The truth is, those who age gracefully know that they are in control of themselves and how they want to live as they age, and where and how they want to spend their time. You don’t have to give in to the negative stereotypes – and many, in fact, are not.
At Waterstone on High Ridge, residents find themselves living their lives to the fullest, traveling, pursuing new hobbies, getting active in causes that are important to them, and, yes, even staying up late at times! They simply enjoy the freedom and opportunities they’ve been given to enjoy retirement, all while embracing the possibilities each day holds.
“We can lock our apartment and travel anywhere we wish without a care. We can eat anywhere we choose. We simply can enjoy a stress-free life, and we deserve that.”
– Jennifer & Mark L., Residents of Waterstone on High Ridge
Adopt a positive attitude and mindset.
People who live with a positive mindset or with gratitude often feel happier. If you’re looking to age gracefully, practice gratitude, find ways to laugh every day, manage stress, meditate, reflect on the positive events in your life, or make a list of people or things that you are thankful for.
When you aren’t feeling so positive, these things can help you feel good while improving your mental health.
Take care of your health – in body and in mind.
The aging process can be tough to deal with, but the more you take care of yourself, the better your quality of life will be. As you grow older, focus on the below to achieve healthy aging.
Increase Your Physical Activity Levels
Not only can this decrease your risk of heart disease by lowering your blood pressure, but it’s good for your mind and overall health. Aim to exercise for at least 150 minutes per week.
Enhance Nutrition with Healthy Eating
Exercise isn’t the only thing that can help you age well when you have an increased risk of debilitating health conditions – eating a healthy and nutritious diet can, too. Make sure you’re consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and low-fat dairy.
Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Sleep is important for those of all ages, so create a calming bedtime routine and aim for about seven to nine hours of sleep a night.
Don’t Forget To Visit Your Doctor
Regular visits can help you manage your long-term and short-term health conditions, provide advice to enhance your physical health, support you in living longer, and take care of any questions and concerns.
Explore your sense of purpose, allowing you to pursue what excites you.
Retirement is the perfect time to do what you love, try new things and enhance your social connection. Strive to continue learning, traveling, giving back, and really honing in on what it is you’ve wanted to do but never had time to before.
Understand that things may change.
One of the crucial things that older adults understand about aging is that care needs and abilities may change. Those who age gracefully plan, prepare for any possible difficulties and find ways to handle them ahead of time.
Discover How To Age with Grace at Waterstone on High Ridge
If you’re searching for a senior living community that will offer everything you need throughout your aging journey, you’ll find it at Waterstone on High Ridge. With opportunities to socialize, enhance your physical health and wellness, delight in delicious dining, manage your health needs, and make the most of your retirement, you’ll age with grace in an environment created to meet and exceed your expectations.
To experience how Waterstone on High Ridge supports older adults in aging with grace for yourself or to learn more about our premier senior living lifestyle, schedule a visit today.
HOME THE WAY YOU LIKE IT. SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT.
Waterstone on High Ridge offers a modern approach to senior living in a beautiful hilltop setting. Come see how we redefine independent living, assisted living and memory care in Fairfield County, just minutes away from fine restaurants, retail stores and cultural venues in Stamford and Greenwich.