May 10, 2024
Across the world, people are living longer than ever before. However, according to the World Health Organization, “evidence suggests the proportion of life in good health has remained broadly constant, implying that the additional years are in poor health.” Taking a proactive approach to aging can help us live full, energetic, and healthy lives no matter how many years we have lived.
As the Director of Wellness at Vitalia Strongsville, I champion proactive aging to increase life expectancy by prioritizing ongoing healthcare needs. We encourage residents to maintain both physical and mental activity levels, emphasizing the importance of regular appointments with primary care physicians and specialists every six months.
The harmful impacts of stress and anxiety on health, affecting both mental and physical well-being, can cause restless sleep, headaches, hypertension, gastrointestinal discomfort, irritability, and even depression. These issues may lead to social withdrawal and decreased productivity.
Barriers to preventive care adherence include lack of motivation, logistical support for appointment scheduling and transportation, anxiety about medical visits, and financial constraints.
However, the benefits of preventive care are manifold, including:
To foster proactive thinking, we promote the establishment of achievable goals. Also, encourage engagement in enjoyable activities and celebrate milestones along the way. By leading by example and making proactive health practices enjoyable, we strive to inspire others to adopt similar approaches to aging.
It is never too late to invest in your health. Taking control of our well-being can be the difference between surviving and thriving, the difference between extra years of truly living and extra years in decline. Make your years count. Approach aging proactively and use those extra years to get another degree, take up a new hobby, break a record, or explore opportunities you never thought you would get to experience.
World Health Organization: Aging and Health, click here to read the full article.
VITALIA® Strongsville in Strongsville, OH offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near Southwest General Hospital with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Mallard Creek, Southpark Mall, Strongsville Historical Society, The Greens of Strongsville Shopping , and Don’s Pomeroy House.
