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Aging Well
Live longer AND Better—Now
We live longer these days, but to live better, too,
Educate yourself. Make good health a priority and learn all you
can about general wellness as well as your own personal concerns. Know
what screenings you need (and get them!). Stay up-to-date on health
research. Be your own greatest health proponent.
Get expert care and support when you need it. You and your
doctor are a partnership. To ensure you’re getting the best possible
care and support, be an active partner. When you need a specialized
service like cancer care or heart surgery, seek out a hospital with
true expertise in that area—including the very latest technology,
skills and access to research.
Stay independent. Even if you reach the point of needing help
with meals, housekeeping or medications, there are many new
options—such as assisted living—that allow you to stay in control of
your life and feel good about yourself. That’s a key to positive aging.
Keep yourself strong. Older adults who exercise regularly can
out-perform sedentary people half their age. They also reduce their
risk of heart disease, obesity and many other problems. To keep
yourself in top condition, you should also eat a healthy diet, reduce
stress, quit smoking, avoid overuse of alcohol and challenge your mind
by learning new skills.
Stay connected. Studies show that strong family, social and
community ties reduce stress, prevent depression and help keep you
mentally sharp. About a third of people over age 65 stay connected
through a paying job. A similar number volunteer in the community, and
nearly all enjoy a hobby that brings them in contact with kindred
spirits. This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM
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