Advances in health and other fields have produced an increase in life expectation and a reduction in the rate of disability among people of all ages. It is not unusual for people to live far beyond what was once known as the age of retirement, sixty-five, as living into the 80’s and 90’s is no longer a rarity.
The authors of Old Is The New Young look at aging as the start of a new chapter in life; that the old clichés about the description of retirement no longer applies. They urge staying informed, inspired, and involved in life. In addition, investing in preventive health care practices like exercising and eating the rights food can make a difference. It is their tenet that the aging process can be slowed down based on their experience in the retirement industry.
Old is the New Young Concept
The concept of the Erickson Foundation that was created by Mark Erickson, was that in a six week program, there would be an improvement in older adults memories, physical activity, stress reduction along with dietary teaching. These are now included in the book containing the ten secrets that were discovered in studying the aging process. It comes with the understanding that it is important to first having the right information and second making the right choices. And according to the authors, the time to start taking control of health starts early to live a more independent life later.
The Secrets
- Identify personal strengths and weaknesses. When the self-assessment is done, formulate a plan for improvement.
- Think positively. Each individual has the ability to change outlooks and get rid of negative thoughts.
- Taking care of oneself. Recognize the ability to improve lifestyles that lead to improved health.
- Find the right medical team that will coordinate with each other.
- Control factors that can lead to heart disease and stroke such as smoking, high blood pressure, poor diet, and an inactive lifestyle.
- Remain curious and avoid doing the same things in the same way every day.
- Sharpen the mind by trying new things such as game playing and brain exercises.
- Become resilient by adjusting to change and keeping a positive attitude.
- Learn to accept help graciously and welcome support from others.
- Be knowledgeable abut about finances.
Developing a Retirement Vision
People today are generally healthier and will have many "bonus" years with opportunities for growth and meaning. The authors call these years "the freedom years". Retirees today expect interesting lives with the opportunity to pursue leisure interests and experience new things through travel, to be active in the community or in a new work environment.
In planning for retirement, each individual has to figure out what works best because everyone's vision is different. Creating a retirement map early on can add to the peace of mind.
About the Authors:
Mark Erickson is Erickson's chief operating officer. Matt J. Narrett, is a board-certified M.D. from Harvard Medical School and is chief medical officer for Erickson Retirement Communities. Jacquelyn Kung completed a doctorate at John Hopkins School of Public Health. Lis Davida, a former R.N., is an Erickson medical writer.
Erickson, Mark, Matt Narrett, Jacquelyn King, and Lisa Davida. Old is the New Young. Connecticut: GPP/Globe Pequot Press.2009.
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