UCanMakeItIfYouTry – Aging Well
Even though we haven’t discovered the Fountain of Youth, most people still want to live a long and happy life. Once we begin noticeably aging, we are reminded that we have a finite amount of time left. You can worry about this, or you can use this reminder to live your best life. You can enjoy many more years when you take control of your life and health using these nine tips.
1 – Visit Your Doctor and Dentist Regularly
Things change as the body ages. You move slower. You may not remember things like you did in your twenties. It’s a great habit to visit your doctor each year for a checkup. Also, remember to see your dentist regularly to ensure you keep your smile for years to come.
2 – Stay Hydrated
We all need water; however, older adults run higher risks of dehydration and UTIs. Try to keep water with you at all times and drink it. Eating foods with high water content will help you stay hydrated as well.
3 – Eat Nutrient-Dense, Whole Foods
Give your body what it needs to be healthy. A diet full of high-fat products or pre-packed foods does not give your body what it needs to sustain good health. Change up your diet by eating foods that pack loads of nutrients in each bite. Also, increase the whole foods you eat.
4 – Exercise Regularly
Stronger bones and muscles decrease your chances of falling, a significant risk for older adults. Cardio exercises help your heart stay strong while lifting weights strengthens your bones and muscles. Also, the movement keeps oxygen running through your brain, keeping it sharp.
5 – Stick to Good Sleeping Habits
Your body also needs time to rest and repair itself. Ideally, you should get 6-8 hours of sleep each night. Pick a bedtime and stick to it to get ‘good’ sleep. Create a before-bed routine, including a bath, lowering the thermostat, and darkening the room to give yourself the best opportunity for deep, restful sleep.
6 – Protect Your Skin
It’s time to protect your skin—the largest organ you have. Even if you do not plan on being outside for long periods, keep the sunscreen on and wear clothes that breathe but keep the sun’s rays at bay. A hat helps keep the sun off your skin as well.
7 – Stay Connected with Family and Friends
Social interaction is another critical factor for keeping your mind sharp and warding off illness, including depression. Look for opportunities to connect with your kids, extended family, and friends. You will enjoy the laughs that will keep you young.
8 – Keep a Positive Outlook
There’s much negativity in the world. You don’t have to be part of it, though. Look for ways to find the good in people and circumstances. Try keeping a gratitude journal to note the things you are grateful for and review it often.
9 – Keep On Learning
There is no set time that we must stop learning. A commitment to learning is one of the best ways to keep your mind sharp and engaged. Learning new things will make sure you aren’t getting left behind in the past.
FAST-ACTION STEPS
1 – If it has been more than a year since your last visit, schedule your physical and dental checkup today. Get the requested test and use it as a baseline for better health.
2 – Buy a new, reusable water bottle that will keep liquids cold. Carry it with you and aim to drink 64 ounces each day to keep your body well hydrated.
3 – Find a new subject, hobby, or skill that you would like to learn. Take the first step towards doing so.
- About the Author
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James Donaldson
Former Owner and Director of The Donaldson Clinic (an outpatient physical therapy clinic)
James completed a 20 year professional basketball career in the spring of 2000. James established The Donaldson Clinic in (January 1990 – 2018) (shortly after a career threatening knee injury) with an idea that he would eventually become a physical therapist. He is a strong advocate for Women & Minority owned businesses and is very involved with various Chambers of Commerce. He understands what it takes to sustain a strong business environment that is conducive to the success of businesses overall.
James is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the N.B.A. with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks and Utah Jazz. He also played for several in Spain, Italy and Greece of the European Leagues plus toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an N.B.A. All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac – 10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame.
He now devotes the majority of his time to various community activities, and toward the Gift of Life Foundation, speaking on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, youth groups and is the author of the published “Standing Above the Crowd” of which you can learn more about at www.standingabovethecrowd.com and is available for sale now.
In 2021, James published Celebrating Your Gift of Life: From the Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy. www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com
James is a 40+ year resident of Seattle. He believes in being a role model of success and professionalism for the scores of young people that he devotes so much of his time to. He currently serves on several Boards and/or committees and is a member of many organizations. (Please see complete listing on back)
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win – Win” environment for everyone involved, and being the best he can be!
