We all strive for a healthy, connected, and fulfilling life as we age. But do we often pause to consider whether our actions support this goal?
A test developed as part of the Take Five to Age Well project—a free, month-long challenge by experts from Open University & Age UK—makes asking these questions, reflecting, and taking action easier and more powerful.
Healthy aging depends on multiple factors. Research shows that our long-term health is shaped by a combination of physical, mental, and social factors.
That’s why experts have identified five key elements—known as the Five Pillars of Healthy Aging—that form the foundation for maintaining wellbeing and thriving as we grow older:
5 Questions to Assess Your Aging Process
Are You Eating Healthily?
Do you consume enough fruits and vegetables, limit ultra-processed foods, and meet your body’s changing nutritional needs? Diets like the Mediterranean diet are associated with a reduced risk of dementia and other chronic illnesses.
Malnutrition is a serious concern among older adults, especially when it comes to maintaining muscle and bone strength.
Are You Staying Hydrated?
Are you drinking enough water to support both your brain and body? Dehydration can easily occur and impact cognitive function, mood, and energy levels.
Reducing sugary drinks can help maintain a healthy weight, and adhering to recommended alcohol limits can lower the risk of conditions like dementia. Adequate hydration is crucial.
For those with life-limiting conditions such as late-stage dementia, where appetite and oral intake may be severely diminished, sugary drinks may be one of the few sources of calories they can tolerate. In these cases, hydration and comfort take precedence over strict nutritional guidelines. Therefore, individual care plans should always guide decisions.
Are You Physically Active?
Are you regularly active? Enough to get your heart rate up? Are you replacing sedentary time with movement?
A sedentary lifestyle is associated with numerous health risks. Simple habits like walking more can improve physical strength, mental acuity, and prevent osteoporosis, especially when coupled with good nutrition.
Are You Socially Connected?
Do you stay in touch with people, spend time with your community, and enjoy meaningful connections? Loneliness increases the risk of depression and cognitive decline.
Building strong social relationships early on can help safeguard long-term health.
Are You Challenging Your Brain?
Do you keep your brain active by learning new things, reading, playing an instrument, or trying something novel? Research shows that engaging in hobbies, activities like crosswords, or new physical activities can promote brain health and may help delay dementia. There’s no magic solution, but even small actions can have long-lasting benefits.
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