In the book “Aging Successfully”, by David P Gallagher, you can learn about the components of staying healthier longer. While we all are going to die at some point – humans do have a finite shelf life, many people’s health begins failing much younger than it needs to.
In the book, Gallagher lists essential components to staying high on the healthy and vital curve for much longer than many:
Emotionally: Staying positive and having an upbeat outlook on life is key to a long and healthy life. Depression is very common in older adults but it can be avoided. Accepting the aging process is one key factor in warding off depression. Each change that comes with aging can become the new normal if you go with it rather than fight it or become bitter. Aging is inevitable but does not have to cause depression. If you do get depressed, seek help immediately, do not grin and bear it.
Mentally:Those who stay intellectually stimulated fare much better. Keeping the mind active is vital to staying healthy. Even if it’s doing crossword puzzles or reading the newspaper, reading a book, or having a lively topical discussion with friends, family, or former colleagues, keeping your mind active will keep you healthy longer.
Socially: Those who stay engaged with others do much better. Get out and see others and have others in. Call people. Make the effort. It is worth it and will pay off for your health.
Spiritually: Those with religious faith need to lean on this arm of their life as they age to stay healthy longer. It is a key part of aging successfully and can bring much solace to the soul and to health.
These components together are proven scientifically to add healthy years to people’s lives. So live healthier longer!