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2 Ways To Age Well That Have Nothing To Do With Diet Or Exercise
In our pursuit of longevity, we often focus primarily on diet and exercise. However, there are crucial aspects of well-being that we may overlook: social fitness and the practice of kindness. Here’s an insightful exploration into these factors that can significantly enhance our quality of life and well-being as we age.
Wellness Starts with “We” — Especially for Women
Chip Conley, the founder of the Modern Elder Academy, offers a thought-provoking perspective on personal wellness. He points out, “We tend to get very fixated on individual wellness, but interestingly, the word illness starts with an ‘I,’ and wellness starts with a ‘we.’” This emphasis on community and social connectivity opens up a vital area of health often neglected in traditional wellness models.
The Importance of Social Fitness
Social fitness is a term that encompasses the social aspects of our health. Conley introduces the concept of community as a “social safety net.” While we often secure our homes with insurance, where is our “emotional insurance” for the challenging periods in life? As life expectancy increases, maintaining stimulating social interactions and enriching relationships becomes increasingly important, especially for women, who are more likely to live alone as they age.
Statistics reveal that women in the U.S. are twice as likely to live alone after 65 compared to men. This reality makes women more susceptible to the adverse effects of isolation and loneliness, reinforcing the necessity of nurturing social connections.
Quality Over Quantity
It’s important to understand that you don’t have to be a social butterfly or maintain a vast circle of acquaintances. What truly counts is the quality of our relationships. According to Kelli Harding, a psychiatrist and author, a good mix of strong and weak ties offers meaning and connection. Daily interactions at places like coffee shops or grocery stores contribute to our sense of belonging.
Harding urges everyone to be intentional about developing diverse relationships. Building a diverse portfolio of friendships can bolster one’s immune system and overall well-being.
As Helen Dennis, an expert in aging, advises, “At later life stages, it’s essential to take the initiative in developing relationships. It requires practice since not everyone is naturally inclined to initiate connections.”
Take a Social Inventory
To gauge the state of your social connections, ask yourself: “Do I regularly talk to people during the day? Have I made time to connect with a loved one today?” If the answer is no, it may be time to reach out or invite friends over, even if you’re homebound.
Be mindful that relationships should be supportive and nurturing. If interactions with certain people foster insecurity or stress, they may be toxic, and it’s important to consider the healthiest approach to these connections.
Kindness Fosters Social Fitness
And what about kindness? According to Harding, “I wish I could prescribe kindness to all of my patients, because there’s little downside and a substantial potential gain.” Simple acts of kindness—like making eye contact, smiling, or offering support—can lead to significant health benefits, including reduced stress and lower blood pressure.
Studies indicate that acts of kindness create a ripple effect, inspiring gratitude and subsequent acts of kindness in both the giver and the receiver.
In summary, while diet and exercise are indeed vital to longevity, the role of social engagement and the practice of kindness are equally essential. Prioritizing these aspects may enhance not only the quality of life but also contribute to greater overall health as we age. Incorporating these practices into daily life could lead to substantial benefits—emotionally, socially, and physically—ultimately improving our experience of aging.
Excerpted with permission from “Ageless Aging” by Maddy Dychtwald, Mayo Clinic Press, May 2024.
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