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What a geriatric doctor wishes you knew now for healthy aging

Food, exercise and social connection are three important pillars for healthy aging.  Fly View Productions/E+/Getty Images
Food, exercise and social connection are three important pillars for healthy aging. Fly View Productions/E+/Getty Images

Longevity is not just about living longer but living well. By 2040, more than 20% of Americans will be 65 or older, and over half will require long-term care. Dr. John Batsis, a geriatrician at the University of North Carolina, emphasizes that healthy aging can begin at any age by focusing on proper nutrition, regular exercise, and social connections. A balanced diet, such as the Mediterranean diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, is crucial. Regular physical activity, including 150 minutes of moderate exercise and resistance training per week, helps maintain muscle strength. 

Social connections are equally vital for mental health, providing a sense of purpose and preventing depression in older adults. Batsis stresses that healthy aging is achievable at any stage of life, not just for the young. It involves aligning health goals with personal values, making small, sustainable changes, and engaging in community and healthcare resources. It's about understanding what matters to you and working towards maintaining that quality of life through proactive, holistic approaches.

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