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Ageing is a natural process that is unavoidable. As we age our bodies change. However, the good news is that we do have some control over how the body ages. Age related body changes happen to everyone, but different individuals react differently to such ageing body changes. The human body undergoes various physical as well as emotional changes. Understanding the body changes as we age can help us stay more aware and more comfortable about these changes.
Ageing Process of Human Body
The ageing process of the human body is typically a set and certain process. It involves the physiological changes that occur in the human body, which range from conception to the very end. After a certain age, body starts deteriorating, and there is a steady decline in the body’s biological functions. These changes are often accompanied by psychological and behavioural changes. Let us delve a little deeper and see how different parts of the body change as you age:
1. Heart - a testament to life's endurance
The human heart pumps all day, every day, with an average of 2.5 billion beats during your lifetime! With time, however, the blood vessels can gradually lose their elasticity. Once you cross 65, the valves thicken, and the flow to the heart’s muscles is reduced. As compared to when you were young, your heart typically has a lower heart rate.
2. Bones and Muscles - a reflection of your strength
Like we age, so do our bones and muscles. The bones start to shrink. Some elderly start appearing shorter, while many others become more prone to falls and fractures. Tendons, muscles and joints start losing their strength.
3. Digestive System - powering life within
One of the most important body changes as you get older happens in your digestive system. Ageing can bring certain common digestive disorders as the capacity of the stomach’s lining reduces and resisting damage becomes challenging. After a certain age, most people find it difficult to eat as much food as they comfortably could in their younger years.
4. Brain and Nervous System - managing all your thoughts and actions
The body losing cells is another among the many ageing body changes. Forgetting things and memory loss, which is a common body changes at 60 in females and males. One may notice a slowing down of reflexes and a lack of coordinated body movements.
5. Eyes - your gateway to the world
Another common male and female ageing body change happens in the eyes. You may notice that your vision starts to deteriorate. Most people find it difficult to see in low-light conditions. Perception of colours also becomes different in some cases. Some common age related body system changes can cause glaucoma and cataracts.
6. Body Shape and Weight - sculptor to your personality
When the body changes after 30, you may tend to decrease your physical activity. Lack of exercise and a slower metabolism can easily lead to weight gain and, thus, ageing changes in body shape. Another one of the major body changes at 60 females is that burning calories becomes all the more difficult.
>> Also Read: 6 Sources of Iron to Include in Your Diet
Know How Growing old is Mandatory but Growing up is Optional
When you are in your 20s, you are probably at the peak of your physical health. At this stage, the ageing body changes are mostly positive, and you are still on an upward development curve. While most of the functions are working at their full potential, it's not too early to prioritise your mental and physical health. Follow these healthy tips and tricks to sail through the decades:
1. Be Positive about Ageing
When it comes to body changes as you get older, remember you are what you think you are. Rather than feeling gloomy about your age, take it as a means to wisdom. Keep in mind that your mindset can play a very significant role in how emotionally and physically resilient you are. Try to:
- Indulge in relaxation techniques such as meditation and breathing exercises to manage stress.
- Try to spend time with friends and family to improve your overall well-being.
- Find new ways and hobbies to keep yourself happily occupied and engaged. Studies show that people who keep busy with leisure activities are less likely to experience depression. They have better chances of living longer.
- Practise mindfulness, which is a means to be accepting and living in the moment. Rather than missing what you were once, concentrate on the present.
2. Exercise
You might have heard a number of times that exercise can significantly lower your risk of a number of lifestyle diseases and other disorders. As ageing changes in body shape, you need to indulge in some kind of physical exercise that can help you maintain your body weight and improve your sleep patterns, mood and skin.
3. Eat Healthy Food
The food you eat can greatly affect the ageing process of human body. If you wish to age gracefully, it is essential that you:
- Include fruits and vegetables in your everyday diet
- Eat healthy fats
- Avoid sugary, fried, very spicy food, as they can speed up the body changes as we age.
4. See Your Doctor on Frequent Intervals
Even if you are feeling fit physically and mentally, it is highly recommended that you visit your doctor regularly. An early diagnosis can be very helpful in dealing with any disorder. Regular check-ups become essential as body changes after 30.
Over to You
The saying, “Growing old is mandatory, growing up is optional”, is an aide-memoire that keeps reminding us that while each of us will age, it does not mean that we have to grow old and give up the things we like to do. For those who are mentally and physically fit, age is just a number. An individual’s chronological years do not necessarily define their capabilities, experiences, or outlook on life. You can continually learn, evolve, and achieve at any stage of life, breaking barriers and redefining expectations.
At Care Health Insurance, we understand that embracing opportunities and pursuing dreams is essential at every age. And the one thing that can keep you going is good health! To ensure that your dreams do not take a back seat due to ill health, we offer you the best health insurance plans. Well suited for people of all age groups, our health plans offer premium coverage at the most affordable prices. Your body changes as you age, but don’t let the worry of being old stop you from doing what makes you happy!
Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.
