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Maintaining health for seniors may be a matter of engaging in an active social life
Ilchi Lee says that health is one of the most valuable things a person has and should be guarded at all costs. However, despite this importance, many people begin to let their physical and mental condition start to slip as they get older, chalking the changes up to aspects of the natural aging process.
However, this does not have to be the case. Experts say that seniors can involve themselves in many activities that help stimulate brain health and keep their bodies physically active. For example, a recent study out of the University of Southern California found that engaging in meaningful activities helps seniors maintain both physical and mental fitness.
These types of activities can include anything from visiting a museum with friends to taking a walk in the park. The researchers said that engaging in these activities could have important health benefits for seniors.
"Although people are living longer, it is important that they also live better. This intervention results in improved quality of life and provides a vehicle for maintaining health as we age," said Florence Clark, who led the investigation.
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Social activity can preserve mental function in seniors
There are many ways that Ilchi Lee says a person can preserve their brain health as they age. Meditation and mind training programs can all help seniors stay mentally sharp. Now, a new study has shown that simply being more socially active may also serve to protect the brain from decline.
Researchers from Rush University reported in the Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society that older individuals who engage in more social activities tend to have healthier brain function than more socially isolated seniors.
The researchers speculated that social activities force individuals to use diverse areas of their brains, which may serve to preserve neural networks and contribute to a sharp, focused mind. The study showed that social activities as simple as going to church or eating at a restaurant can be enough to preserve mental function.
When these activities are added to meditative programs or other initiatives specifically designed to improve mental function, seniors may be able to remain lucid and avoid cognitive decline for many years to come. Lee says that mental health is one of the most important areas of overall health.
