Healthy Aging can Look Different to Different People

Many people have different definitions of healthy aging. Very few people meet the actual standard of healthy aging. The definition states ” Individuals are successfully aging if they are: free of diseases; can function at a high physical and cognitive level; are socially engaged; and are productive.” (John Davy) Healthy aging to me is being able to maintain the physical and mental health that enables your wellbeing in life. Meaning being able to do what you have reasons and value for. Also being able to maintain happiness throughout your life. Some ways you can achieve healthy aging is by eating healthy because when you age your dietary needs change and it is important to eat food with a lot of nutrients because as you get older you tend to eat less. This can also help you stay at a healthy weight. One of the biggest things to me that you can do is participate in activities that you enjoy. This can make you overall more happy in life and could even improve your thinking abilities. The number one thing to me about healthy aging overall is to find a reason and find a purpose. Whether it be grandchildren, animals, or friends. In our class we watched a video on healthy aging and it has really stuck with me ever since. The Secret to Successful Aging | Cathleen Toomey | TEDxPiscataquaRiver. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPBJJ-lxsXA Cathleen Toomey has shaped my perspective on healthy aging in many different ways. Having older parents has also shaped and contributed to my perspective on healthy aging as well. It has really highlighted the importance of finding your reason and purpose and maintaining good enough health to be able to participate in the things that mean the most in life to you.