Fortune has some great suggestions on how to stay fit as we age. Read the entire article here.
Dr. Kirk Erickson, a director of Translational Neurosciences (impressive, eh) starts things off. Erickson’s research shows that as we age, the brain shrinks, specifically the hippocampus which is responsible for memory formation. Exercise can help maintain this portion of the brain. He recommends moderate exercise, like walking, 5 days a week for 30 minutes.
Strength training helps combat age-related muscle loss, and can lead to a longer lifespan. Additionally, balance exercises can help prevent slips and falls—the leading cause of injuries in adults ages 65 and older.
One study showed the simple act of reading articles online and searching topics on Google offered valuable mental stimulation. Doing crossword puzzles, reading books, playing games, practicing hobbies and daydreaming all contribute to mental sharpness.
Stress management, is also a critical part of maintaining mental fitness. Just 10 minutes of meditation a day can improve mood and cognitive agility.
The U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory this year warning of the nation’s loneliness epidemic, which negatively impacts health. Social connection reduces the risk of premature death. It’s clear that social and emotional fitness is key to aging well.
A good night’s sleep matters. Poor sleep over the long-term is linked to health conditions including depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer. One suggestion is to watch that caffeine.
There’s some good tips kids! Stay fit!
– Jet Cannon