Ageing as a golden phase

It's important to age in a healthy manner.

Doctors want all seniors to know about getting older in a healthy way. Even though it's difficult to get older, doctors say that turning 60 doesn't have to mean slowing down. In honor of World Senior Citizens Day, we talked to experts about what keeps older people busy. 

Dr. Shushil Kataria and Dr. Gupta have provided several suggestions for staying active and mitigating health risks. But according to doctors, growing older doesn't have to be this difficult. Perhaps now would be a good time to focus more on your health, your loved ones, and yourself. According to some of the world's top doctors, individuals over 60 can improve their health and age more gracefully by making minor lifestyle adjustments.

Status of Senior Citizens 

Walking, getting out of bed, and picking up the newspaper from the floor are examples of simple tasks that can become more challenging and taxing as we age. As we get older, our bodies may slow down. Everyday tasks may take longer, and we may not have as much energy as we used to. Many retirees experience loneliness, and the loss of a spouse can worsen this feeling.

According to Medanta's Dr. Sushila Kataria, "Aging does not have to be passive." "Seniors can effectively manage challenges and age gracefully by taking control of their health and maintaining relationships with friends and family," he said.

Get a protection plan in place

A compromised immune system is one of the main hazards for senior citizens. They are therefore more susceptible to illnesses like shingles, pneumonia, and the flu. These infections can become even more hazardous and, in the worst situations, potentially fatal for people who have long-term medical conditions like diabetes or kidney disease. The ATS journal, Annals of the American Thoracic Society, claims that immunity drastically declines in the sixth decade of life, potentially resulting in significant age-related changes.

One of the best strategies to avoid infectious diseases or lessen complications is to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Regular health check-ups and screening tests also aid in staying proactive, according to Dr. Kataria. According to her, every senior should consult their physician to create a personalized protection plan that includes vaccinations and screenings for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, kidney disease, and heart conditions.

Stay physically active

Not everyone over 60 can hit the gym or take up high-intensity workouts to stay active or get fitter. But that doesn’t mean physical activity should stop. Seniors must therefore move frequently to maintain strong bones and muscles.

According to Dr. Kataria, "even small physical activities like yoga, stretching at home, or taking a stroll in the park can have a big impact." These tiny but regular exercises, which she refers to as micro-movements, help preserve mobility without putting undue strain on joints. Gardening and other household tasks can also help prevent stiffness.

Maintaining social ties

• Elderly loneliness is gradually becoming a silent health crisis. Additionally, a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report cautioned that social isolation raises older adults' risk of dying young by almost 30%. Therefore, maintaining social ties is crucial.
• Dr. Kataria explains the importance of rebuilding connections. “During our peak working years, we often don’t find time to meet friends or attend family gatherings. Retirement is the time to reconnect. "Having a strong social circle keeps the mind active and helps overcome loneliness," she says.
• Joining community groups, making new friends in the park, or even reviving old hobbies can help keep the elderly socially engaged and emotionally healthy.

Make technology your best friend

• According to experts, technology can be very important for healthy aging, even though many seniors would rather avoid it. 
• Technology, from online health trackers to fitness applications, can make life safer and easier.
•  According to a study that was published in BMC Public Health, smartphones, for example, may help older people better educate themselves on health-related topics.
• “We already use video-calling apps to connect with family. 
• Seniors can now take things a step further by using apps that monitor health metrics, remind them to schedule doctor's appointments, or remind them to get their vaccinations on time, suggests Dr. Kataria.
• By learning to use these tools, seniors can feel more independent while staying connected with doctors and loved ones.

Unique challenges seniors face due to age

Some of the most prevalent issues that older adults encounter are discussed by Dr. Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.

Nutritional deficiencies due to dental issues

Seniors who have gum disease or tooth loss may find it difficult to chew, which makes them avoid nutritious foods like raw vegetables or nuts. Protein, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 deficiencies may result from this, according to Dr. Gupta. He goes on to say that these dietary deficiencies can impair bone strength, lower immunity, and increase a senior's susceptibility to illness.

Increased risk of falls

Joint stiffness and weak muscles increase the risk of falls, making daily tasks challenging. One of the most frequent reasons why older adults sustain serious injuries is falls. According to Dr. Rakesh Gupta, "even a minor fall at this age can lead to fractures or long hospital stays, which greatly affect independence and quality of life."

Cognitive decline

Dr. Gupta cautions that while memory loss and diminished focus are normal aspects of aging, diseases like dementia can have a serious impact on senior citizens. Hence, keeping their mind active is important. This decline can be slowed, and you can age better with early detection and mental activities like reading or solving puzzles.

Social isolation

Seniors are frequently left feeling alone due to the death of a spouse, restricted mobility, or family members moving away. "In addition to having an impact on mental health, a lack of social interaction can exacerbate chronic conditions," he continues.

Chronic health conditions

Managing multiple illnesses often means juggling several medications. “This increases the risk of drug interactions and mistakes, especially if vision or memory is poor,” explains Dr. Gupta.

How to overcome these challenges?

Staying socially active with family, friends

• Many of these problems, according to doctors, can be avoided or controlled with modest but persistent efforts.
• Seniors can maintain good nutrition with regular dental visits and softer yet nutritious foods. 
• Gentle activities like walking or yoga improve balance and reduce fall risks, while brain-boosting exercises and routine health check-ups support cognitive health.
• Staying socially active with family, friends, or community groups also protects mental well-being.
•  At the same time, simplifying medication routines and consulting doctors regularly can reduce the dangers of polypharmacy, making it easier and safer to manage multiple health conditions,” Dr. Gupta said.

Ageing as a golden phase

According to both experts, growing older need not be seen negatively. "The years after 50 can truly be golden when we start our journey of active and healthy aging," Dr. Kataria says.

Dr. Gupta adds, “Aging is natural, but with timely care and support, seniors can continue to lead independent, fulfilling lives.”

Conclusion

On this Senior Citizens Day, doctors urge people above 60, and their families, to embrace these healthy ageing habits. With the right approach, the later years of life can be just as enriching as the earlier ones.

Although changing one's lifestyle can help one age more easily, older adults still face some obstacles.