Ageing and continuing good health

April 7th is World Health Day. The theme for World health day this year is Ageing and good health. 

Everyone who is born holds dual citizenship, in the kingdom of the well and in the kingdom of sick. Although we all prefer to use only the good passport, sooner or later each of us is obliged, at least for a spell, to identify ourselves as the citizens of the other place. -- Susan Sontag 

Thankfully, with the evolution in medical technology, recourse to advanced medical and holistic treatments and general awareness to good health, the longevity of man has extended.

The World Health Organization is celebrating the world health day this year by focusing on ageing and continuing good health.

Life expectancy is going up in most countries, meaning more and more people live longer and enter an age when they may need health care. Meanwhile birth rates are generally falling. Countries and health care systems will need to find innovative and sustainable ways to cope with the demographic shift.

 And with the extension in the life span of man, society has an added responsibility of ensuring that the first citizens of our world are given the best of facilities both psychosocially and medically.

Ageing increase the risk of some diseases and conditions but good nutrition, exercise and positive attitude can help keep one mentally and physically active .

Being Prepared

Learning how to manage conditions like menopause, arthritis, osteoporosis and depression will help you prepare for the future and face the conditions in a more positive frame of mind.

Staying active:

Regular exercise be it walking, gardening, cycling, swimming etc. will not only boost your physical and mental health, but will also improve muscle mass and bone strength.

Balanced Eating:

A balanced diet that includes adequate nutrients, fibre and water is necessary for a healthy body of any age. Good nutrition and weight management is impartial to age.

Healthy Ageing:

Ageing  affects the muscles, bones, joints and skin as well as the mind.

Keeping mentally and physically fit is the key to a stress free life.

Enjoying good health in old age is something that we all wish for and typically like in all other strata’s in life the foundation should start early and be laid strongly. Sadly for many people this often turns out not to be the case, as various chronic age-related illnesses affect the wellbeing of so many of us.

Remembering that older persons play a crucial role in their communities - they engage in paid or volunteering work, transmit experience and knowledge, and help their families with caring responsibilities can help preserve their pride in themselves and make their upkeep both a pleasant and valuable experience for both the generations. These contributions can only be ensured if they enjoy good health and if societies address their needs.