What older people know that we don't – ParkGate Retirement Community, LIVING WELL Magazine

What Older People Know That We Don’t

Navigating the trials of life and aging in the world of the older generation

By Chris Smith, Parkgate, North Dallas LIVING WELL Magazine

America is on the verge of losing yet another natural resource. In about 10 years, three-fourths of America’s oldest generation will be gone. They will take with them lessons learned about living through illness, failure, success, poverty, loss, and danger and more basic things like love, work, parenting, friendships and growing old.

We have in America’s elders our most credible experts on living well through thick and thin. I think they really know how to be happy despite these kinds of difficulties and problems – that’s really at the core of their practical advice for living. They know you have to be responsible for your own happiness. “Happiness is a choice, and not a condition.”

At times, some elders experienced a turning point when they were in despair or devastated, and they turned things around because of attitude. Some believe younger people are happy because of things, like they’re going to be happy or they plan to be happy if something happens. Younger people should learn how to be happy in spite of things – choose happiness – or choose to be not unhappy. Acceptance is a choice. Contentment is a choice.

Elders aren’t necessarily expressing regret, but how much more or how much less risk-averse they are than you might think they’d be at this age. They are really trying to prescribe that we say “yes” to opportunities in our life. There is one lesson most elders would like to convey to everybody. That lesson (sounds simple) is that life is really, really short. Centenarians are most likely to say life passes by in a nanosecond, which is not depressing, but rather suggests using time more wisely, to be more selective how you invest your time.

There is a striking and fascinating correlation of elders’ perceptions or relationships with death. The older you are, the less panicky or afraid you are about death and dying. As odd as it sounds, many in the older generation don’t worry so much about dying. They’re much more concerned with planning for the end of life, with preparing for the journey and using, again, the sense of limited time to make life richer and more interesting.

Older people are extraordinarily resilient. Research shows people 70 and beyond are happier than young people and have higher life satisfaction, despite adversity.

This generation of elders has perfected resilience and adaptability. We have much to learn from them; they are true role models.

Aging Well

Genetics only plays a 25% role in determining how long people will live. Your health, fitness, happiness and longevity are your responsibility.

Good habits and a combination of factors allow for extended health. Such as Good diet, Caloric restriction, Exercise and fresh air,  Sense of purpose, Curiosity, Having fun, Sleeping soundly, and Setting and keeping goals.

Practical choices include Drinking water, Reducing salt intake, Taking multi-vitamins, Eating nuts (source of protein, fiber and antioxidants), Living in the present, Thinking positively, Associating with like-minded people, Staying young at heart, Stimulating your mind, Helping others, Avoiding perfectionism, Not complaining, Being a good listener, and Splurging once in a while.

Centenarians lead active lives and get plenty of rest. They are dedicated lifelong learners and avid travelers. Many centenarians agree aging is an attitude – and they don’t feel old.

“Super Ager,” Lea Piper, centenarian, lives at ParkGate Retirement Community. She believes never sitting still is one of the best ways to stay young. Today, Lea lives independently, exercises regularly and leads an active social life. She is blessed with good health – no walker – no prescriptions – no arthritis. She was a concert pianist for the San Francisco Ballet and has a 6-foot grand piano in her apartment and continues to enjoy playing. Lea is an inspiration to us all!

Every day is a gift. Try not to take it for granted. Carpe diem!

Chris Smith is the director of marketing at ParkGate Independent Adult Community, a charming, contemporary residence for professional and active mature adults. ParkGate’s residents receive the highest level of personal service and most extensive array of amenities in close proximity to the cultural heart of Dallas. To learn more about the affordable, care-free lifestyle offered at ParkGate, please visit their website at www.ParkGateDallas.com.