By Mimi Kraus, LCSW-C 

September is Healthy Aging Month, making it an ideal time to reflect on how to age successfully and meaningfully. At the turn of the twentieth century, the average lifespan in the US was under 50 years. Before the onset of the Coronavirus, many scientists believed that advances in medical and surgical treatments, along with childhood vaccines, could push the average age to 100 by the end of the twenty-first century. As life expectancy has increased and people now live many years beyond retirement, the question of how to age well has become increasingly important.

Prior to the 1980s, little was known about how to age successfully while maintaining a high quality of life. Gerontology focused mainly on the “3 Ds” of disease, decline, and disability. However, groundbreaking research in the 1970s and 1980s shifted the focus to “successful aging”—characterized by high cognitive functioning, an active and interactive lifestyle, and the absence of disease and disability. This research highlighted that lifestyle changes such as eating healthily, quitting smoking and excessive drinking, exercising regularly, and adhering to medication regimens could reduce risk factors for disease and even reverse some chronic conditions. This empowers individuals to take charge of their health and well-being. Studies also suggest that mental function can be supported through intellectual stimulation, such as reading, playing games, taking classes, and pursuing lifelong learning.

Maintaining social connections has proven to mitigate some of the negative effects of aging by providing essential social support, a sense of purpose, and connection. This became especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when lockdowns, stay-at-home orders, and social distancing measures heightened the risk of social isolation among older adults. Although conditions have improved, the risk of social isolation still exists, making it crucial to remain cautious and proactive.

As we age, spiritual needs, such as finding meaning and purpose in life, become increasingly significant. According to prominent developmental psychologist Erik Erikson, reflecting on one’s life can lead to either a sense of fulfillment or regret. For those struggling with these reflections, Life Review Therapy can be beneficial. It helps individuals resolve past conflicts, reconstruct their life stories more positively, and accept their current reality.

To make the most of Healthy Aging Month and to enhance a successful and meaningful aging process, consider the following suggestions:

1. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Focus on nutritional eating, abstaining from smoking, moderating alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, developing good sleep habits, and taking medications as prescribed. These practices can reduce disease and disability risk factors.
2. Keep Mentally Stimulated: Engage in activities that challenge your mind, such as reading, playing games, participating in projects or hobbies, following current events, or taking classes. Conversations on interesting topics can also be mentally stimulating.
3. Stay Connected: Involve yourself in activities with others to maintain a sense of meaning and connection. Participate in group activities and take advantage of the many virtual opportunities available for exercise, religious services, opportunities to nurture your mental well-being through creative expression, book groups, and more! Such events offer a chance to gather with friends from the convenience of where you are, using Zoom, FaceTime, Google Meet, and Skype.  For those who prefer traditional methods, staying connected by phone is also an option.
4. Cultivate a Positive Attitude: Focus on the positives and nurture joy, playfulness, and pleasure in your daily life.
5. Resolve Unfinished Issues: Reflect on your life, acknowledge its many facets, and work towards resolving unfinished business in important relationships. Strive for self-acceptance and acceptance of others.

Embracing these practices can help make the aging process not only longer but also more fulfilling and meaningful.

   Mimi Kraus is a Senior Clinical Therapist at Jewish Community Services.

Jewish Community Services (JCS) provides programs and services for people of all ages and backgrounds, helping them achieve their goals, enhance their well-being, and maximize their independence. To learn more, visit jcsbalt.org or 410-466-9200.