Have you heard about the Blue Zones? These are areas that are home to some of the world’s longest living people. Although in different geographic areas, residents do share similar traits of their daily lives including healthy diets, staying active, strong ties to families and communities, and having a purpose in life.
Secrets to aging well
Here are a few detailed characteristics of Blue Zone residents who often live past their 90s and into their 100s:
- Not all are vegetarians but they do limit their consumption of meat
- Diets are rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and legumes
- Calories aren’t excessive as they stop eating when they feel 80% full
- Alcohol is consumed in moderation and is typically red wine rich in antioxidants
- Movement is part of their daily life with gardening, walking and other tasks
- They listen to their bodies to tell them the amount of sleep they need
- They often live in multigenerational households with grandparents looking after grandchildren
- They live among a healthy social network who sets good examples
- They have a purpose in life
What you can do to age well
You don’t have to move to a Blue Zone to live a healthier and longer life. You can make any changes needed today and greatly influence your longevity and ability to age well. Scientists believe that genetics only play a 25% role, leaving the majority up to the environment and your chosen lifestyle.
Following these tips can help get you on your way or encourage you to maintain your goals.
1. Eat well
Remember the old saying, “we are what we eat”? When it comes to our health, it’s very true. We need certain nutrients to fuel our body and mind and food is the basis of that energy. For most of your meals, practice portion control and include fresh and healthy ingredients.
2. Be physically active
Movement is another key to aging well. While the Blue Zone residents don’t schedule time to go to the gym, they have built physical activity into their lives.
According to the American Heart Association, over 80% of all U.S. jobs are predominantly sedentary. After retirement, many may find themselves even less active. Find ways to start moving.
3. Help your brain stay in shape
As we learn more about brain health, we know there are steps we can take to improve our memory and possibly delay any symptoms of dementia. Make sure to participate in social activities and conversations as well as stimulating activities to keep your brain fit.
4. Build a strong social network
Having friends and family in your life is critical to aging well and happiness. We need others and the dangers of isolation can be detrimental to both our mental and physical health. Unfortunately, as we grow older it can become more difficult to meet with people but look for ways you can connect.
5. Engage with life around you
Make sure you are engaging with life daily. Keep up with local news and what’s happening around the world. Participate in fun activities, try painting, sculpting or other creative endeavors. Join a book club or discussion group. The possibilities are almost endless.
6. Manage your stress
Everyone has stress but to age well and live healthy you need to learn how to manage it. If you feel that the strain often gets the better of you, consider practicing yoga or meditation, deep breathing or relaxation exercises. Talk to your doctor if more guidance is needed.
7. Get enough sleep
When we sleep, we give our bodies the chance to rejuvenate and recharge. If you struggle to go to sleep, or to stay asleep through the night, talk to your doctor to make sure medication isn’t the cause.
Otherwise, practice healthy sleep habits, such as going to bed at the same time, no electronics in the bedroom and keeping to the same nighttime routine.
How an independent living community can help
If you look at the benefits that independent living can offer, you’ll find that they match what is needed to live a healthy and long life. They are designed for that purpose.
Independent living communities support their residents to live their most engaged life. Whether that’s through access to a healthy diet, staying in physical shape, spending time exploring their artistic side, attending a stimulating educational event or just getting together with others to converse or laugh, you’ll discover all these advantages are available.
And if you’re finding it hard to meet and make new friends or attend activities that you always found enjoyable, an independent living community has planned for that too.
Your paths will cross with other residents at the many activities, amenities and common areas and you’ll find it easy and natural to get to know your neighbors. Everything you need or would like to participate in is right outside of your door. If it’s not, transportation is usually provided.
Ingleside at Rock Creek Independent Living
If you’ve been considering steps you might take to increase your longevity, you may be glad to discover how beneficial an independent living community can be.
Along with being supported in your efforts to age well and live life to the fullest, we think you’ll appreciate the ease in keeping active, eating healthy, staying in good physical health and creating strong social relationships.
You’ll also have the choice of a spacious one or two bedroom floor plan with a full sized kitchen, large windows that flood your living space with natural light, safety features and underground parking.
If you’re searching for the type of lifestyle you’ve always imagined, we hope you’ll consider the many benefits of Ingleside at Rock Creek Independent Living.
Please visit our website for more information. Call (202) 846-2651 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized tour today.