How to Practice Positive Ageing

Did you know that positive ageing can increase life expectancy and influence good mental and physical health? But wait… what exactly is positive ageing? Let’s find out!

Positive (or Healthy) Ageing

You might have heard the term ‘positive ageing’, but what exactly is it? Well, in a general sense, positive ageing (sometimes known as healthy ageing) means approaching older age with mindfulness and positivity. It’s about making healthy choices and maintaining a healthy mindset when looking forward to the future. And it’s not all theory—studies show that older adults who practice a positive approach to ageing tend to live happier and longer lives.

Keep Moving

Many people think it’s natural to lose mobility and fitness as you age. But in reality, a commitment to staying active can keep you mobile right through your later years. But don’t worry, staying active doesn’t have to mean competing in a triathlon or joining a gym (unless you want to!). It can be as easy as taking daily walks, joining a dance class, learning seated yoga, gardening, or even playing with your grandchildren. The key is to remain positive (tell yourself, ‘I can do this!) with exercise and to find activities you enjoy so movement doesn’t feel like a chore.

Also, apart from maintaining your mobility, regular physical activity can also boost your mood, keep your body strong, and help prevent or delay diseases linked to ageing—wow!

Engage Your Mind

Keeping your mind sharp is just as important as keeping your body active. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help keep your brain healthy and improve cognitive function (while also warding off diseases like dementia!). How do you keep your mind active as you age? There are plenty of ways. You could learn a new language, play a musical instrument, read a book, or give puzzles and brain games a go. Basically, any hobby that helps you think deeply and encourages you to use your critical thinking skills will do the trick! If it helps, take a moment each morning to consider ‘What can I do today to engage my mind?’ and make mental wellness your priority.

Stay Connected

Social connection can foster good moods and improve your emotional and mental wellbeing. But sadly, it’s not uncommon for our social circles to dwindle as we age. So, practice mindfulness and intentionality with socialising. Actively maintain old social connections and build new ones whenever you can. This could be through spending more time with family, joining a club, or even volunteering. Putting yourself out there might feel strange at first, but it’ll be worth it in the long run.

Could you use some help getting to and from dance classes or shopping for a new book? We’re here! At Simply Helping, we offer a great range of flexible home care services to help you age positively. Click here to learn more, and contact us today.