Aging with Grace

Staying healthy and feeling the best is vital at any age. These tips will help you deal with the changes that surround getting older—and living life to the fullest.

As we get older, we are experiencing a growing array of significant life shifts, including career transformations and retirement, children leaving home, loss of loved ones, physical and wellness challenges—and even a loss of freedom. How we deal with and learn from these shifts is also the secret to safe aging.

When you age, your life is going to change, and you are steadily losing things that have traditionally consumed your time and given your life meaning. For example, your work may change, you may ultimately retire from your profession, your children may leave home, or other friends and family may move away from home. But now isn't the time to stop going on. Later life will be a period of thrilling new experiences.

The longer you live, the more you lose. But as you lose people and things, life becomes even more precious. When you stop taking things for granted, you appreciate and enjoy what you have even more.

Many things in life are beyond our control. Rather than stressing out over them, focus on the things you can control such as the way you choose to react to problems. Face your limitations with dignity and a healthy dose of humor.

You may have a hard time showing emotions, perhaps feeling that such a display is inappropriate and weak. But burying your feelings can lead to anger, resentment, and depression. Don’t deny what you’re going through. Find healthy ways to process your feelings, perhaps by talking with a close friend or writing in a journal.

Aging with Grace