Easy Changes to Live Longer
- March 29th, 2013
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Americans are living longer now. It is not uncommon to know people in their 80′s, 90′s and even 100′s. So what is the key to living longer these days?
There are some very simple ways to live longer. Most of them are not health-related. Many of them are so common we forget about them. They all work. Add your own from what you know of people you know who are older.
• Be conscientious. Be responsible. Be prudent. Be persistent.
• Be social. Connect with family and friends on a regular basis. Work as long as you can as long as you enjoy it and it is not isolating. Plan activities with others and join events when asked. It may prevent dementia.
• Remember that is it okay to worry a little. It is one thing to be pessimistic or optimistic but it can be detrimental to your health. It is normal to worry about health, money and the world.
• Frankly, it helps to have good genes. But if not, follow the other tips here.
• Men should get married and stay married. Fewer than a 1/3 of divorced men live to be 70, according to the Longevity Project. Women are in the clear as they seem to get their support from more than just their partners.
• Thank the stars for this one: dieting and longevity have nothing in common. There is no proof that eating less means you will live longer. Eat more and eat more healthful foods.
Adding to the above:
• Eat more chocolate. Dark chocolate is not only a mood booster, but contains antioxidants to help keep us well.
• Try new fruits and vegetables.
• Have a glass of wine now and then. It is relaxing and tastes good.
• Only do the exercises you like such as walking, bike riding and swimming. Leave the gym memberships to those who want to compete in mini-marathons. Dancing, for instance, burns more calories than walking on a treadmill.
• Drink more coffee. It is not all that bad for you.
• Rescue an animal from a shelter. First, you are saving another life and one that will be grateful to you forever. Second, pets are great companions and in some cases, are better companions than a human being.
• Exercise the mind. It keeps it active longer. Do crossword and other puzzles. Read as much and often as you can. Remember the Golden Rule – Treat others as you would like to be treated. Be kind. Have fun.
• Give back or Pay It Forward. Today in America TV gives employees three paid days per year to volunteer.
Living longer is more than just eating well and getting some exercise. It is also having a healthy and active mind and social life. Do as much as you can for as long as you can. Keep in touch with everyone you know. Do not work too hard. Be honest. Be creative. Living longer is not as hard as you might think.







