A wealth of research indicates that the body enters a phase of accelerated aging after the age of 60. However, not everyone experiences this decline at the same pace. Some individuals maintain their physical well-being, mental acuity, and vitality, which may be indicative of a “longevity constitution.”
Ms. Lu, a 59-year-old previously vigorous woman who could effortlessly climb seven flights of stairs, found herself facing a noticeable decline in her health after retirement. She now struggles to climb even three flights of stairs without taking a break. Looking in the mirror, she was taken aback by the wrinkles that had appeared on her face.
When confiding in an old friend, Ms. Lu was consoled with the words: “Your spirit is still young; you’re just a bit sensitive.” However, Ms. Lu sighed and expressed her feeling of truly entering old age, no longer considering herself a middle-aged person but a senior.
At What Age Are We Considered “Old”?
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines old age as beginning at 65 years. However, in Vietnam, this threshold is set at 60.
Regardless of the standard, recent studies suggest that turning 60 marks a significant “cliff” in the aging process. According to research from Stanford University, published in Nature Aging, the body starts to age more rapidly from the age of 60, a phenomenon termed “sudden aging.”
Individuals at this age are at a heightened risk of cardiovascular issues, strokes, immune disorders, and muscle and joint degeneration. Their muscle mass begins to diminish rapidly, skin wrinkles appear, and their digestive and excretory systems function less efficiently.
Traditional medicine also asserts that, after 60, Qi and blood decrease, and tendons and bones degenerate. If one does not pay attention to health maintenance and regenerative practices, their health may deteriorate rapidly.
However, there are those who, even after turning 60, remain robust, optimistic, and long-lived. They often exhibit the following five signs of a “longevity constitution.”
5 Signs of a “Longevity Constitution” After Age 60
1. Agile Mobility: A medical study revealed a correlation between walking speed and longevity. Individuals who walk faster tend to have stronger muscles, better circulation, fewer chronic illnesses, and greater self-care abilities.
2. Appetite and Good Digestion: Seniors who maintain a healthy appetite and efficient digestion indicate a well-functioning digestive system, which is crucial for proper nutrient absorption and maintaining physical strength. They are less likely to suffer from intestinal ailments.
3. Hand Grip Strength: Research published in JAMA Network Open demonstrates that hand grip strength directly reflects overall muscle strength. Older adults with weaker hand grips are at a higher risk of early death. Conversely, a strong grip is a positive indicator of overall health.
4. Clear Blood Vessels: The adage, “Your lifespan is determined by the health of your blood vessels,” holds true. Individuals with clear blood vessels, free from excessive fat and plaque buildup, are at a lower risk of life-threatening conditions like strokes, cardiovascular events, and cerebrovascular diseases, which are leading causes of death today.
5. Positive Mental Attitude: According to a study by the US National Academy of Sciences, optimistic individuals tend to live longer, experience reduced stress, enjoy better immune function, and are less prone to cognitive decline in their senior years.
Aging Misconceptions: 4 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Senior Care
Retirement often prompts individuals to focus on health maintenance, but it’s essential to approach this stage of life with accurate information. Here are four common mistakes to avoid:
1. Overreliance on Supplements and Tonics: Unregulated use of supplements and tonics can damage the liver and kidneys. Even herbal remedies should be used with caution and only after proper consultation, avoiding the temptation to follow unsubstantiated trends.
2. Excessive Calcium Intake: Too much calcium can lead to kidney stones and atherosclerosis. Regular check-ups and medical advice are necessary to ensure proper calcium supplementation.
3. Striving for 10,000 Steps Daily: While walking is beneficial, it should be tailored to the individual’s physical condition. For seniors with joint or cardiovascular issues, excessive walking can be counterproductive.
4. Consuming Only Bone Broth, Not Meat: Bone broth is often considered more nutritious than meat, but it contains fewer nutrients and higher purine levels, which can trigger gout. It’s essential to consume a balanced diet that includes meat to obtain complete nutrition.
4 French Women’s Eating Secrets for Ageless Beauty and a Sleek Silhouette as They Age.
The French woman’s diet is a mysterious and much-coveted concept. It conjures images of effortless elegance and a certain je ne sais quoi. But, behind this facade of nonchalance, there is a meticulous and laborious process. The French woman’s relationship with food is a delicate dance, a carefully curated balance of indulgence and restraint. This text aims to unveil the secrets behind this enigmatic diet and explore the intricacies that make it so desirable.
The Ultimate Beauty Battle: Who Reigns Supreme Among Chinese Actresses in the Raw Lens?
The natural beauty of Chinese-speaking celebrities has been capturing attention. Their fresh-faced, makeup-free looks offer a captivating glimpse into their daily lives, providing a contrast to their glamorous on-screen personas.
The Ultimate Skin and Figure Savior: 1 Gram a Day to Defy Aging.
“Did you know that a mere gram a day could be the secret to slowing down the aging process, retaining youthful vitality, and living a healthier life? Uncover the mystery of this natural ‘superfood’ that is easily within your reach.”
4 Colors Middle-Aged Women Should Avoid Wearing to Stay Clear of the ‘Tacky’ Label
Instead of opting for vibrant and bold colors, mature women should embrace a palette of neutral, soft, and versatile shades. This timeless selection ensures an elegant, youthful, and fashionable appearance, allowing for a seamless and sophisticated style.
The Ultimate Guide to Ageless Style: A Japanese Stylist’s Secret to Looking Young and Fresh After 40.
A shirt is a classic garment, but choose the wrong style and it can age you.
