How To Age Successfully





How to age successfully

Introduction

Aging is a normal process that occurs as we grow older. Over the years as we age, we experience a multitude of changes that relate to our physiology, psychology and the way we are perceived by those around us. The process and the transition are easy for some, for others it is very hard, and they may take recourse to extreme measures such as cosmetic surgeries to stay young, or give a youthful appearance. Aging brings with itself certain dimensions that may increase while other may experience a decline; senior citizens often have issues with memory and the ability to retain information, while they also grow wise and their view of the world and its realities are much more diverse than that of a young adult (Sternberg F.J 1990).

Discussion

When it comes to aging, I believe that it is important that I do not view my aging as something that is negative. Cicero mentions aging from the point of view of stoicism, where he contends that old age is a time for reflection and time where we contemplate the realities of life, instead of brooding over the loss of our physical abilities. In this respect, the process of physical aging is slightly different from that of mental aging. Studies have shown that those senior citizens who can perform the 13 of the mobility activities have been successful in adapting to their ages, and were ranked in the top 20 %(Kempler D.2005). Those, however, who lack the physical strength and thus require regular assistance, might start to view themselves negatively, and thus fall into depression.

Most of studies have so far ignored to focus on our ability to understand that our time will eventually run out and that life will come to an end (Cartensen L.L et.al 2006). While most of us are busy, and have little time to see that life is passing us by, there are some who in a sense, take a step back and focus on the bigger picture, seeing that their time is constant and will eventually run out. I personally see myself appreciating the things I have in my life right now. A positive approach, I believe can reduce the psychological effects of aging (Cartensen L.L et.al 2006), which will eventually arise, and help me understand all that I have accomplished.

Secondly, a good source of adapting to old age is to keep the choice of the right partner, who will be a source of comfort in the old age. The SST (socioemotional selective theory) presented findings that indicated that when the older people were presented with a choice of choosing their partner with their advanced years in mind, they chose one who was emotionally close to them (Cartensen L.L et.al 2006). In the advanced years reliability and constancy are two qualities that people value. Hence they would like to be with someone, who has a constant presence. This also applies to other aspects of ...