Dos and Don’ts of Aging Gracefully
By Leslie Howard Stevens – Follow me on Google+
Aging – it happens to all of us. As we grow older, it’s natural for our bodies to change, though some of these changes may be less than desirable. If you want to age with grace, you’ll need to make sure your lifestyle meshes with that goal. Here are some dos and don’ts for those looking to make their golden years as elegant as possible.
Do treat your body right
A big part of aging with grace means keeping your body in shape. Middle-aged adults who aren’t active are more likely to develop health problems, which can make them seem older than they are. But if you’ve ever met a person and thought, “Wow, she looks so young for her age!” you can bet it’s because she keeps her body in motion. This doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym for three hours every day. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Development, for those over 65, two hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week coupled with muscle training two times a week is sufficient. You’ll also need to make sure that you’re eating well, so pile up on those leafy greens and delicious fruits.
Maintain your skincare regimen
Even with a workout routine and a healthy diet, there are some parts of aging that may still develop. The skin on the face is often troublesome for middle-aged and older adults, but you should adopt or maintain a steady skincare regimen. Using lotions, anti-aging creams and face washes can help, along with professional treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion and laser skin rejuvenation.
Do reveal your real age
If you’re looking and feeling great, what’s the point of hiding your true age? Some people may balk at letting others know how long they’ve been alive, but those who age gracefully should be proud of their years. If you refuse to reveal your age, people may assume you’re older than you actually are.
Don’t fear the future
Getting older can be anxiety-inducing, especially if you aren’t certain what the future holds. But now more than ever, people are using their golden years as a chance to travel, go on adventures, start a new career or return to school. It’s not the end of the road, it’s the beginning of a new chapter.
Match your outside to your inside
Aging could catch many by surprise. One day you look in the mirror and you don’t feel like your appearance matches your energy levels. Subtle, nonsurgical procedures like Botox injections, dermal fillers and skin rejuvenation could help you look your best. However, a facelift, neck lift and eye surgery can create a long-lasting youthful look that can help you maintain your identity.
View this blog post originally available on The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
