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Health in Aging

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Written by: Healthysport

Created: 17 December 2024

Last Updated: 17 December 2024

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On My Health While Aging

I have returned to contemplating my health. I am now a few months past 62, and in less than three years, I will qualify for Medicare. I retired at 62 to spend more time indulging in the things I love before old age starts imposing its limits. Truthfully, I already face some limits—diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol—a combination I call the Unhappy Triad (as opposed to the Unhappy Trio of leg issues). I have no qualms sharing my diagnoses. At this point in my life, health privacy is no longer a concern. It would be a miracle to claim perfect health at my age. Of course, I wouldn’t have shared my health information if it impacted my job prospects or if I struggled with mental health issues (LOL). Those topics involve dignity and self-image. But since I’m retired, no one likely cares about my health—except, of course, myself.

I take my diagnoses seriously. They put me at high risk for stroke, kidney failure, heart attack, neuropathy, and pain among other complications, if I don’t stay vigilant. I’m on medication now, in addition to maintaining regular exercise. I try to address all components of health maintenance: physical, social, psychological, spiritual, and emotional. Writing this article is a result of my journaling about health—a habit I often pair with a morning walk or jog for at least an hour. By 9 o’clock, I drive to my workplace. Yes, I still work two to three hours a day, despite being retired. It gives me a reason to get out of bed and interact with people. As a single person, I don’t have a spouse or partner to fill the social gaps, so it’s beneficial to get out and engage with society for a few hours each day. I’m fortunate to live in Florida, where physical therapists (PTs) are in demand. Even older professionals like me, who can’t handle heavy lifting, find lighter duties such as paperwork with occasional lifting. I’ve grown so accustomed to this work that it feels automatic.

I never skip my exercises, which I consider the secret to an enjoyable life. Ironically, having diabetes has been a motivator—it pushes me to burn sugar every day. I know this sentiment of not stopping diabetes on its onset might not sit well with other health professionals since diabetes is always viewed as a condition to avoid at all costs. Still, some of us develop it despite being health-conscious. I discovered my diabetes while training for a marathon, and my initial reaction was disbelief. As a PT who has enjoyed running and an active lifestyle since college, I now see exercise as even more essential to my well-being.

Take yesterday as an example: After work, a four-mile run, and skipping lunch, I was famished but still had a 5 o’clock Zoom meeting for my HOA business. I ate a late lunch and took a quick nap, waking up close to 10 p.m., feeling refreshed. I got up for decaf coffee and found myself hungry again, so I planned a keto-friendly dinner of veggies and meat.

Over the last couple of weeks, I haven’t thought much about my health because I’ve been immersed in outdoor photography and practicing reels and shorts for social media. I momentarily enjoyed this new fad on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. At my age, I shy away from featuring myself—let’s face it, I no longer inspire the youth—but I’m still confident in how I look for someone in my age group. My point is that trying new trends, even if I’m far from being “cool,” is still worthwhile. Certain things matter at any age. I emphasize this often, whether in a clinical setting or through writing like I’m doing now.

Exercise, diet, sleep/rest, mental health, and social life hold primary importance regardless of age, gender, status, or ethnicity. It’s safe to say:

1. Exercise matters, no matter how brief. I make sure to walk or jog every morning, occasionally skipping a day depending on my energy levels. I also have a gym membership for strength training, but I’ve begun collecting affordable exercise equipment from Walmart or outlet stores. I prefer doing routines at home or in my yard when weather permits. I don’t aim for lofty goals. Given my knee pain, I’m just happy to jog, and my strength training follows the same principle. I admire those my age who lift weights meant for people half their age, but I do what I can and am content with that. I take videos of my exercises, mainly to document which muscles I’m targeting when I share them on social media. However, I firmly believe in individualized goals—each person knows their limits. For some, walking is enough; for others, running like an Olympian brings joy. One may be proud of lifting 20 pounds, while another won’t settle for less than 200. The key is age- and health-appropriate exercises.

2. Diet is equally vital. Given my diabetes and hypertension, I must be selective about what I eat. I focus on the timing, portion size, and nutritional value of my meals. Low-glycemic carbs like rice and pasta are out, as are processed meats loaded with salt. I opt for healthy proteins, non-fatty meats, fish, vegetables, and nuts—the basics of good versus bad foods.

3. Mental health is supported through my consistent journaling practice. Writing centers my thoughts and organizes the chaos in my mind. As I age, I’ve noticed the monkey brain becomes more active during idle moments—random thoughts, images, and scenarios parade through my mind like a chaotic storm. This primitive brain, once essential for survival, is now managed by our evolved, logical brain. Meditation and contemplation help me redirect this mental noise.

Beyond journaling, I strive to learn something new every day. Recently, I’ve explored Reels, Shorts, and videos, using tools like Akaso, GoPro, and my iPhone. I began with Facebook, then moved to Facebook Pages, YouTube, and now TikTok. Learning social media has shown me its addictive nature—it’s easy to overshare and overwhelm friends with unnecessary posts. I’ve learned to post in moderation, focusing only on sharing genuine social adventures.

Ten years ago, I earned a degree in IT, hoping to transition from PT to IT. Though that plan didn’t work out, I now aim to revisit programming as a hobby, free of deadlines or expectations. I also enjoy reading and fiction writing, hobbies that keep my mind engaged and active as I age.

4. Social connections matter, even for someone like me who values solitude. Before you picture me as lonely, let me assure you—I’m not. I chat with fellow joggers at the park, talk to my tenants and housemate, attend HOA board meetings, and work a few hours daily interacting with coworkers and patients. Honestly, I often feel more overwhelmed by social interactions than I’d like to admit.

The point is, opportunities to socialize exist for those who seek them. Fear of rejection, criticism, or judgment holds many people back. But letting go of those fears and embracing authenticity can be liberating. You might be surprised at how many people share your interests and personality—but you have to put yourself out there to find them.