Written By Alan Good
Country crooner Toby Keith sang, “I ain’t as good as I once was…” The song goes on to say that he might want to do certain things, but his body doesn’t work as it did when he was younger.
As we grow older, we may want to take it easy on ourselves. As a senior, I get it, but too much non-movement is dangerous! Not a good way to live if you wish to live long, well, and see your grandchildren grow. Our bodies may be rebelling because we are older. But there’s a cure. It’s called, “activity”.
We’re aging. Our bodies know it and show it. But inside we think younger thoughts. We may be more fatigued, have less strength and high blood pressure.
As for me, although the man in the mirror is older than before, I have kept moving. Many who have read my past articles know, this writer has tried many forms of exercise. This has made me feel and be able to move better than, say, others younger and more dormant.
In 2016, over 16% of the population was 65 years old or older. In 2036, the prediction is for over 24% of us will be seniors. Even with better health care the prediction is over 7% of those will be in a living-assisted home.
Seniors (and all) who do not move, and move regularly, will suffer from illnesses such as dementia, diabetes, and just plain weakness. As body parts slow down and deteriorate many seniors will need care to function.
It’s a fact that our bone density and muscle mass declines, as will the nervous and digestive systems. Our brains loose neurons and tissue. In short, getting old sucks!
It’s also a fact that regular movement can stave off the above. Many organizations tied in with health and heart improvements tout the 150-minute rule. That’s 150 minutes of various exercises per week, taken in daily increments of no less than 20 to 30 minutes.
It’s been proven that with this amount of movement the cardiovascular system improves, bones and muscles increase, and our brains grow. Doing consistent exercise will improve your appetite, your mindset, and your endurance, not to mention help you live longer and enjoy the time you have.
I’m not talking about climbing Mount Everest—unless you want to. I am saying, you don’t need to stay where you are, health wise, if you don’t want to. First, check with your doctor to assure what you can or cannot do.
Studies show that in just six weeks you will notice improvements in all areas, so plan to do something today. Start small and build on that. Walk, use exercise bands, ride a bike, move. Move for twenty minutes at a pace you can manage.
“I’m as good once as I ever was”. More later.
