When Rob decided to write a book about the War on Aging and senior fitness, I jumped on board as quick as a bunny rabbit. There are only a few things I know well enough to write about with passion. One is fitness and health. The other Big Important One is staying alive by defining a purpose. I can say that staying alive and healthy is my personal purpose.
I get energized by projects and goals. When I have a sense of purpose I get out of bed and start the day with joy. Purpose is a driving force, a source of energy, and a way to avoid the sadness of routines.
And I’m not alone. Many seniors are happy to finally be working at something they love, whether they’re only partially or fully retired. Many start a new project or rekindle a favorite hobby. But not everyone.
As a psychologist, I hear a lot about the challenges of growing older. Some seniors have adopted the BMW attitude: bitching, moaning, and whining all the way, which makes me wonder if they haven’t identified a purpose that has meaning for them.
The Link Between Purpose and Longevity
I read a new study that looked at longevity (age, physical and mental well-being, and cognitive function) and a sense of purpose. The researchers found that having a presence of meaning is very important for health and well-being. To be sure, there is a wide variety in what creates purpose and meaning for individuals. But, seniors who find and/or maintain purpose in their third age are physically and psychologically healthier.
As we age, we have the liberty to carve out a niche of interests we never had time for when we were working. I know former schoolteachers who take up dancing. Bankers who grow orchids. Other have become actors, singers, writers, computer nerds, photographers, and musicians―no matter their previous careers.
Unfortunately, many seniors have shared with me that while they’d love to try something new, they’re faced with fear of failure, frustration, boredom, or lack of confidence in themselves. Sure, it’s easy to give in to “I’m just getting older so what’s the use?” thinking. Or, you can just say “no” to that way of thinking.
The Hard Truth about Aging
Here’s the hard truth, when it comes to our longevity, it’s really up to us. Without attention to health, exercise, and nutrition, it’s almost certain we’ll end up facing some nasty conditions and diseases as we age. Why not incorporate fitness into your purpose? According to research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, seniors can eliminate about 50 to 70 percent of common diseases of aging by exercising. We think so too.
The doctors’ dilemma is that they know so much that can help patients remain healthy, but don’t know how to get them to make the necessary changes. They see too many seniors who are “non-compliant” with their recommendations. So, even though they know exercise is key to longevity, they aren’t equipped to make sure senior patients follow through. It’s not enough to simply tell seniors they need to exercise.
And, of course, it’s rare for a medical doctor to ask a senior about their meaningful goals. Yet defining a purpose is a major contributor to longevity.
Rob and I ask you to join us in defining a purpose. And if you have trouble doing this, ask some friends to help. It doesn’t have to be a mega goal or project. Maybe you’re not going to save the world. But you can do something, in your own unique way. Why not do whatever you can to ensure our “golden years” are enjoyable.
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