If you think retirement is the dusk of your life, the truth is it’s a new beginning!
For many turning sixty is a milestone, it has a sense of accomplishment of a well-lived life, and for many, it may be a nightmare of old age, disease, and mental depression. The truth is only the lucky few reach this hallmark. It is a time to celebrate, delink from the chaos, and live your life to the fullest.
The average lifespan of humans has increased, and we must embrace life to live it to the brink. You cannot escape death, but till such time you are alive, you must be healthy, happy, and living an awesome life.
Common Problems related to Old Age
Apart from gray hairs, weak mind, and body, there are numerous problems related to old age. With an increasing number of senior citizens and the percentage expected to grow around 22% by 2050, we must understand the issues linked to old age. Some of the common problems associated with old age are:-
- Old age means chronic health conditions. Studies show that more than 90 % of old-age citizens have more than one chronic illness.
- One of the most common cognitive illnesses in old age is dementia.
- As reported by WHO, more than 15% of citizens above the age of 60 suffer from mental illness.
- There are high chances for physical injury in senior citizens.
- Malnutrition in the age above 60 is underdiagnosed. Studies show more than 50% of senior citizens are suffering from nutrition deficiencies.
- There is degradation in sensory motors and oral health.
- Many senior citizens have complaints of constipation and bladder control.
- The majority of senior citizens are suffering from isolation, drug or alcohol abuse.
10 Ways to Lead a Happy Life in Your 60s
Here are ten simple tips that will make you smile, laugh, and make you love every moment of your life.
- Eat Properly.
The most important aspect of the diet is the glycemic index. It decides the management of blood sugar in the body. It was fun to eat sweets in my younger days, and going for a 5 km run would easily burn the extra calories, but now removing calories seems a herculean task. If we look at the BMI index, the ideal is 22. In the US, it is rare to find people beyond 60 having an ideal BMI.
The better option is to be conscious of your diet. Include more grains, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and portions of proteins in your diet. Avoid sugar, saturated fats, food having high salt, fried and greasy food. Include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and calcium-rich nutrition in your diet. Don't skip your meals, and don't starve yourself to reduce weight. Dieting after a certain age is more harmful than beneficial.
- Exercise Daily.
Exercise is essential for stronger muscles and bones. Make a fitness routine and go to the gym. If you hate the gym, a better option is to go for a 30 minutes’ walk followed by 20 minutes of stretching and light exercise. Exercise and walk will not only keep you fit but will reduce the dangers of depression and mental imbalance. A regular 30 minutes’ walk will also activate your glands allowing the adequate release of hormones.
You can also pick up some sports like tennis or basketball and play with other community members. If you are not fit enough to pick up marks, try cycling, dance, or join Zumba classes. The idea is to stay fit in your 60’s.
- Live an Active Life.
Retirement from a job doesn't mean retirement from life. Learn from The Japanese, even after retirement, they keep themselves busy with little things like gardening, doing up their house, or even community service. An active life will give you a sense of accomplishment and will also keep a routine to follow.
Gardening is an incredible way to keep active and maintain a beautiful house. Digging flower beds, shoving, and removing weeds is a natural exercise that will keep you fit. You can also be active in maintaining your home, try new healthy recipes every day, or paint your fence. The idea is to remain engaged with a purpose.
- Improve your Flexibility.
As we grow, our muscles lose their flexibility; they tend to stick more. Even our posture succumbs to the force of gravity, and this is a condition you can handle without much effort. The best way is to practice yoga asanas or regular stretching exercises.
One of the common problems related to stiffness is back problems and knee pain. Make a routine to stretch your back every day; yoga plays an important role in flexibility. Find a trained teacher, or you can even join an online program.
- Retire from job, not from life.
If we look at the statistics in the US, people who retire early tend to live longer. Those who retire at the age of 67 die early. The takeaway point here is that you should plan your retirement at 60. But withdrawing from a job doesn't mean retirement from life. It would be best if you find a purpose in your life, a meaningful reason to make your life beautiful.
We all need a sense of purpose, and for most of us, it is our job. The anxiety in older people is not about a career or a dull life, but it lacks purpose in their life. The important aspect is to keep yourself busy with a sense of accomplishment. A better way is to get involved in community service; another way is to find solace in religious teachings and values. Be a regular church member, read the bible, understand the commandments and implement it in your own life.
- Friends are Forever.
In any life situation or loneliness, friends are always there for support. Get in touch with your old friends, make some new friends or join some volunteer group to get involved in meaningful work. There is nothing great like meeting old friends and remembering the good old days.
Get some social activity organized. Have a school or a college reunion and meet your old friends. Get active in clubs, parties, and social events. Meet your children and grandchildren on weekends. Call on your relatives and friends over a coffee or dinner. Camping, fishing, treks, and adventure trips are great ways to get connected.
- Be at your Best.
It works both ways, the way you dress up and the way you think. Both physical as well as mental attire matters for a meaningful life. Don't be too obsessed by your looks and vanity affair; the idea is to look neat and polished. Looking sharp gives us the confidence to face the world in a positive stride.
Keep your hair groomed; if you prefer a beard, keep it neat. Wear clothes that fit you well, don't move around in your old marriage suit. It is great to floss and brush up your teeth regularly. These are simple things that go a long way in telling others that you still feel your worth.
- Conquer your Fears.
Talk to yourself about your greatest fears and find the relevant answers. Living in the present moment is the best way to tackle your fear. If you live in the moment, any amount of grief or sorrow will pass away with time.
Give strength to others, and you will find your strength. Lend a shoulder to others in grief and agony; when the time will come, they will be the first ones to support you. If you identify your fears, the best way to tackle them is to dive deep into them. If you are afraid of water, take up swimming lessons, and you will see your fears fading away.
- Make a Bucket List.
There would be so many things that you wanted to do but were unable to do because of circumstances. Now is the time to rekindle the fire and live your life the way you want to. If you aspire to be an author, write your story and publish it. If you wanted to do photography, get a professional camera and shoot.
Make a list of at least ten things you want to do before you die. Could you do it now? Try and tick off as many points as possible in your bucket list. You can travel the world, go on a budget holiday, or even plan to open your startup.
- Celebrate every moment of life.
It can be great fun celebrating your birthday and anniversary. Celebrate in style with your friends and family. It is not about your age; it is all about celebrating little aspects of life. Look out for occasions to celebrate, organize a picnic, get-together, and small parties. It is important to see your friends and family as much as possible.
Conclusion.
Life is as you make it. Old age can be a time to cherish and remember the gone by days. Life can also be a painful agony of disease, loneliness, and mental illness. A positive attitude, regular exercise, proper diet, and finding a meaningful purpose in life are important. Remind yourself constantly that you are among the lucky few people who live their lives and reach this age. Thank God for everything; a little gratitude will give you strength and blessings.