Why You Shouldn’t Be Afraid of Getting Older

Retirement is a pivotal point in life. Many recommend making arrangements for it in advance. We will cover what is to be focused on and what should be taken lightly.

During the last one hundred years, the human life cycle has changed, and people have begun to live longer. Thus, for example, at the beginning of the twentieth century, the average age of men and women in the U.S. was 50 years. In one hundred years, this figure will be 77, and scientists estimate that this figure will increase.

Scientists are closely monitoring the impact of aging on physiology and metabolism, trying to develop a system for improving the quality of life of the elderly. Society can also contribute to improving the quality of life of older people by debunking myths about signs of aging.

How physical exercise combats aging

“When you turn fifty, the metabolism is not the same as in your twenties,” is a popular stigma that is only partially correct. While it’s true that metabolism slows down with age, the decrease is not so dramatic, of only 2% every ten years.

It’s also true that the older a person becomes, the less energy is spent on metabolism and physical activity. But, to a certain extent, it comes as a consequence of having less of such activity.

So what can be done? First of all, avoid intake in excess of calories burned in a day. Secondly, don’t cut back on exercise.

Indeed, physical activity helps to slow aging, having an impact not only on human health but also on social life. It appears that muscle strength, endurance, and feeling well helps us stay mobile and independent to keep daily habits and our way of life. Meanwhile, Canadian scientists have discovered the relationship between regular strength workouts and decreasing the risks of osteoporosis. It has turned out such a workout prevents the loss of bone tissue in women before and after menopause.

You don’t have to join a Zumba group or run a half marathon, unless you really want to. You can choose any type of workout, and regular morning exercise is also a way to go.

Do things you love prolong youth?

Another essential means to delay aging is to keep financially independent. Besides, work helps us stay involved in social life and remain active.

This is why up to 40% of those who have decided to retire, later change their mind. Others, who stay retired, discover that their expectations from living on retirement are far from reality, and money is not the only reason for that. 82% of those who retire would have expected that they will continue working in one way or the other.

The latest research proves that companies whose teams include older people have a more competitive advantage in the market. Today’s employees in their fifties are not only well-educated and ready to learn but are in good shape because they care about their health better than young people. For example, in Finland, the frequency and intensity of workouts by elderly people have increased over the last twenty years, and they are well enough to live a long interesting life.

There is no formula to stay happy in old age, and there are no ready recipes, but if you keep moving, have close people in your life, continue doing what you love, and care for your health, you will be well. Life goes on, and it can be full of exciting things and bright emotions. When you have at least a third of your life, you should live life in full.