The first week of October is Active Aging Week. More than just a date on the calendar, Active Aging Week is a spirited campaign that highlights the remarkable abilities of seniors, their valuable contributions to society, and the inspiring role models who lead the way.
The term “active aging" may sound only physical, but there are multiple other components, including vocational, emotional, social, environmental, intellectual, and spiritual. Let’s dive into how these seven elements can help you thrive through your golden years.
Physical
Physical activity is important for healthy aging. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it helps delay and prevent many chronic diseases. It also hosts financial benefits. The CDC quotes, non-institutionalized adults 50 years or older spend about $860 billion annually on healthcare. Statistics show 4 in 5 chronic conditions can be prevented with physical activity. The CDC recommends adults aged 65 and older to have 150 minutes a week of “moderate-intensity activity,” such as brisk walking. Or it’s advised to do 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity such as hiking, jogging, or running. For exercise tips click here.
Vocational
Work that utilizes a person’s skills improves personal satisfaction and is valuable for society. That is according to the International Council of Active Aging(ICAA). ICAA suggests participating in paid and unpaid workforce allows seniors to maintain and improve skills. Some of those employment includes being a caregiver, mentor, teacher and volunteer.
Emotional and Social
Feelings of isolation and loneliness are prevalent amongst seniors. A poll from the University of Michigan shows 34% of adults aged 50-80 reported feeling isolated within the past year. This is a decline from the 56% reported in 2020, but a significant increase from the 27% reported in 2018. A way to combat the feeling of a lack of companionship is by staying active within the community. You can do this by joining a group of your interest. Also the use of technology is an efficient tool to stay connected with friends and family. Try holding weekly or daily video chats to assist with emotional and social connections.
Intellectual
Keeping the mind sharp is a vital component of healthy aging. Research from the Central Connecticut University shows lifelong learning can help prevent conditions such as dementia. Creative ways for lifelong learning includes, taking online classes, volunteering, using apps and podcasts. For additional information click here.
Spiritual
According to the ICAA, living with meaning and purpose in life, guided by personal values, is key to feelings of well-being. To improve your spiritual health, you can partake in group or individual activities such as prayer, bible study, meditation and yoga.
Environmental
Being surrounded by nature can help your emotional and physical wellbeing. Activities such as gardening can promote exercise and reduce stress levels. Respecting resources and recycling is also beneficial for the environment and self-satisfaction.
Wellzesta
Wellzesta has centered our main goal on encouraging holistic well-being for users using the eight dimensions of wellness that promotes active aging.
Daily wellness content and events focusing on different dimensions of wellness allow users to choose which dimension of wellness they would like to focus on at any given time. The variety in selection gives users the opportunity to create personal harmony between the dimensions.
Click here to learn more about how Wellzesta can help your community.
