We’re all aging — but are we aging in good health?
A study reported by the European Heart Journal concluded that a 55-year-old non-smoking female with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and an A1C of 6 (elevated) won’t make it to age 75. If she allows her A1C (a measure of blood sugar) consistently reach 8, her life expectancy drops below age 73.
A combination of increased activity, a healthful diet and stopping unhealthy habits such as tobacco use will improve your chances of aging in good health. See the infographic by the National Institute on Aging that shows that Americans are living longer, but about 60 percent of people over age 65 have multiple health concerns.
If the woman described above makes a few changes, she could enjoy not only more years but more pleasurable years.
Will these changes be easy? Probably not. But sometimes it’s easier to keep trying with friends who can encourage and support us when we really, really want that brownie, cigarette or third beer. Choose a buddy to help you achieve your goal.
Having social support is itself a marker for good health as we age. Some individuals depend on workplace relationships for support and when they retire, find there’s no longer someone to talk to on a daily basis. Developing friendships outside the workplace can alleviate the sudden loss of social connections at retirement.
While you’re still middle-aged and able to get out into your community, seek out relationships in various settings, such as clubs, churches, community centers and parent groups. Many relationships formed during those years will carry through your lifetime.
Here are some local opportunities: Noon meals on Mondays for persons over age 55: call 515-465-5621 to make a reservation. Suppers the second Wednesday of each month for anyone at the Heartland Church of Christ at 1402 Warford St.: call 515-465-2107 for a reservation.
Healthy Aging magazine offers a plethora of information and advice on numerous aspects of aging, including, food, travel, finances and fitness. One other resource is the PBS series AgeWise, which addresses topics such as caregiving, end-of-life issues and helping older adults prepare for emergencies.
Ann Cochran is the health navigation coordinator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
