May 10, 2024
Across the world, people are living longer than ever before. However, according to the World Health Organization, “evidence suggests the proportion of life in good health has remained broadly constant, implying that the additional years are in poor health.” Taking a proactive approach to aging can help us live full, energetic, and healthy lives no matter how many years we have lived.
As the Director of Wellness at The Boulevard Senior Living of St. Peters, I advocate for proactive aging through two key examples: prioritizing movement and promoting healthcare education, particularly regarding end-of-life care.
To manage stress and anxiety, it’s beneficial to practice gratitude by naming things to be thankful for each day and engaging in hobbies. Stress and anxiety can adversely affect health as individuals age, disrupting sleep patterns, elevating heart rate, and reducing serotonin levels, impacting overall well-being.
A common obstacle to maintaining preventative care is the belief that there isn’t enough time. However, prioritizing health is essential, as preventative care can prevent minor issues from escalating into major health concerns. Detecting slight elevations in blood pressure early on, for instance, can prevent future strokes.
Encouraging proactive thinking involves emphasizing the importance of health education. By educating individuals about the significance of health and the impact of small details, we empower them to prioritize their well-being and take proactive steps toward a healthier future.
It is never too late to invest in your health. Taking control of our well-being can be the difference between surviving and thriving, the difference between extra years of truly living and extra years in decline. Make your years count. Approach aging proactively and use those extra years to get another degree, take up a new hobby, break a record, or explore opportunities you never thought you would get to experience.
World Health Organization: Aging and Health, click here to read the full article.
The Boulevard Senior Living of St. Peters in St. Peters, MO offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital St. Charles with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Old Hickory Golf Club, Mid Rivers Mall, Katy Trail, Historic Downtown St. Charles, Streets of St. Charles, Marcus St. Charles Cinema, and Ameristar Casino.
