As another January rolls around, there’s one resolution that longevity experts are urging everyone over 50 to embrace: staying active. While the gym might look like a scene out of a comedy sketch every January 1st, with people flocking in droves only to abandon ship by February, there’s a real opportunity here to commit to a goal that’s truly beneficial, both now and in the long run.
Dr. Sonja Rosen, a leading geriatrician, insists that the best New Year’s resolution for anyone over the age of 50 is simply to be as active as possible. ‘If you want to take one step toward living as long and healthfully as possible, this is the goal to make,’ she states firmly.
Echoing this advice, Dr. Richard Besdine, a prominent professor of medicine, stresses the same prescription: increase your physical activity. The reasoning behind this shared counsel stems from critical health benefits associated with regular exercise. Physical activity is a powerhouse for both the heart and brain—guarding against cardiovascular disease, America’s top killer, and dementia.
Besdine explains that exercise promotes blood flow to the brain, acting as a bulwark against plaque buildup linked to dementia. Even light to moderate exercise has been shown to decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, offering hope for maintaining mental acuity.
It isn’t just about the heart and brain, though. Regular exercise also significantly reduces the risk of falls by up to 39%, adds Rosen. It’s a natural mood booster too, releasing endorphins that help fight off depression. This makes staying active a vital component of mental health care.
But how can people ensure that this resolution sticks, making it more than just a January fad? Rosen advises finding and engaging in activities you enjoy. If jogging on a treadmill sounds dull, perhaps a dance class or kickboxing might spark joy. She also notes that group fitness classes, whether in-person or online, offer dual benefits of physical exercise and social connection.
The value of walking as a simple yet effective exercise cannot be understated. Scientific studies have linked walking 6,000 steps daily to increased longevity. Besdine notes that for those aged 70 and above, engaging in 150 minutes of walking each week significantly cuts the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.
Looking for a concrete target? The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, translating to a manageable 22 minutes daily. Additionally, Besdine recommends strength training to help maintain muscle and bone mass—essential for preventing age-related declines and falls.
Both experts emphasize starting small if necessary. If 30-minute walks are daunting, begin with 10 minutes and gradually build up. The critical point is consistency; any movement is better than none.
Getting older doesn’t mean surrendering to a sedentary lifestyle. Instead, realistic and sustainable health goals can lead to a vibrant future. This year, let each step you take be a leap toward a healthier life.
In conclusion, the key to a fulfilling life after 50 might just be as simple as getting moving. While it may sound straightforward, incorporating regular physical activity can profoundly impact both your physical and mental well-being. By choosing activities you love and gradually increasing your activity level, you can make this New Year’s resolution a lasting change.
Source: Yahoo
