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Extension Report
Baldwin County Extension Office
302A Byrne Street
Bay Minette, AL 36507
Amanda Outlaw
Urban Regional Extension Agent
August 26, 2008
Successful Aging
Healthy aging requires a physical, mental and spiritual exercise program. Older persons can lessen the chances of becoming disabled by taking simple steps to avoid injury or disease. Most of the steps towards healthy aging are free and available in every community. According to Richard E. Powers, MD, and Director, Alabama Bureau of Geriatric Psychiatry, there are several steps to increase chances for healthy aging by protecting the body and brain. Step one; develop a healthy attitude. People are never too old to start taking care of themselves. Exercise, good nutrition and good health can make the difference between a good decade or a decade of disability. Step two; Exercise regularly. Studies show that thirty minutes of walking can reduce the risk of hospitalization for hardening of the arteries by up to one third. Exercising also can protect from osteoporosis (softening of the bones), falls, and injuries. Exercise can make you feel better and even feel healthier. Step three; Maintain social contacts. Keep a network of at least five friends that you can maintain an intellectual and spiritual connection. Step four; Stay psychologically fit by knowing that depression is not a normal part of growing older. Depression is a common problem in older persons and may hasten the onset of intellectual loss. It is a biological brain disorder and many persons respond to medication. Step five; Stop smoking, feel better, and avoid smoking related health problems. Step six; Stay trim. A youthful physique is not only for those on the magazine covers. Obesity will increase health problems and the ability to exercise, as we grow older. Step seven; Limit alcohol. Medicare spends more money on alcohol related diseases than on heart attack. Alcohol abuse is a major problem in older persons. Step eight; understand your medications. Your pharmacist can examine the medications to determine potential side effects but always talk to your physician, especially if you see more than one. One doctor may prescribe the same medicine that you are currently taking but under a different name. Step nine; Watch your diet. Vitamin and nutritional deficiencies can produce illness. A balanced diet is one that you must continue for optimal health. Step ten; Find a doctor that you trust. Find a primary care doctor who likes older persons and will spend time discussing health problems instead of writing a fast prescription to get you out of the office. Remember you are in control of your health if you practice being a proactive participant. Step 11; Take your doctor’s advice, if you do not trust him find another but you must still take their advice. Step twelve; Keep your soul healthy by having an active spiritual life. Older persons add wisdom and perspective to any spiritual group. Step thirteen; control your future by letting your family know what your wishes are regarding medical emergencies and end of life issues. Lastly enjoy your life, laugh at yourself, humor and joy will lift your spirits and strengthen your body. Resources used for this article are from Dr. Richard Powers, publication Successful Aging for Person over Age 65. Dr. Powers may be contacted at 1-800-457-5679.
Email address: aoutlaw@aces.edu
Phone: 937-7176 or 943-5611, 928-0860, ext. 2222
Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work in agriculture and home economics, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, and other related acts, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) offers educational programs, materials, and equal opportunity employment to all people without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status, or disability.
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