May is Older Americans Month: Don’t Be Afraid of Aging, Embrace It!


Image of Dr. Macie Smith, as she discusses tips for supporting someone living with dementia

Does the thought of getting older scare you? I’m here to tell that you don’t need to be afraid of aging. In fact, you should embrace it.

Here’s how:

1. Get on board with the benefits of getting older:

  • the wisdom that comes from experience
  • the confidence to be authentic
  • the ability to not sweat the small stuff

2. Adopt the right mindset.

Accepting aging can go a long way in making the most of your entire life – not just the “young” parts. That means you are an active participant in deciding how to age. By actively defining aging, we don’t allow aging to define us.

3. Be intentional.

Going one step further and being intentional about aging can make the difference between just existing and really living. Here’s an example: make a list of the things you are passionate about, make a plan to pursue those passions and then journal about the experience so you can be aware of how you are defining aging for you.

4. Stay healthy.

There are a number of ways you can support and sustain your health in an intentional way.

  • Stay active. Find an activity that you enjoy doing for 30 minutes a day, five days a week. That will provide the recommended 150 minutes of exercise.
  • Stay socially engaged. Have a friend over for lunch. Find a walking partner. Call your family.
    Pursue your passion. Figure out what you really love to do and do it as much as possible.
  • Keep your brain stimulated. Learn new things, like a language or a card game or a musical instrument. Play timed games. Just like your muscles, your brain needs activity as well.
  • Eat healthy foods. Make a point to add a variety of bright colored fruits and green leafy vegetables to the foods you already enjoy. Choose low fat, low salt and low sugar items.
  • Reduce stressors. Incorporate relaxation techniques into your life such as breathing, meditation, massage and journaling.

It’s important to keep in mind that your age doesn’t define you, your actions do.

Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, go to https://synergyhomecare.com/blog/.

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For more on caring for a loved one with dementia, download SYNERGY HomeCare’s free Memory Care Guide. 

SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or Contact us to talk to a Memory Care specialist.

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