Growing older is an achievement! Every year is a privilege and we should all be proud to be able to live longer, healthier lives.

In Brunei Darussalam, the whole of our society is enriched by the presence of increasing numbers of senior citizens among us making an active and valuable contribution to families and communities throughout the country.

Ageing is a blessing but this does not mean that it doesn't come with its own set of new challenges. As we get older, our muscle strength declines and our bodies develop an increased risk of certain diseases.

Today, due to numerous medical and scientific advances, people are living longer than ever before.

But, you do not just automatically live longer - you have to be good to your body, mind, and soul.

The following nine tips are a good start for getting you on your way to living a long and healthy life.

TIP 1: EAT A BALANCED DIET.

A balanced diet is one that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain, and fibre and low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.

A well-balanced diet can provide your body with the essential nutrients needed to achieve and maintain optimum health. If you have certain conditions, you may need to take supplements.

TIP 2: LIVE AN ACTIVE LIFE.

Regular exercise is one of the greatest keys to physical and mental wellbeing.

Living an active life will help you stay fit enough to maintain your independence to go Where you want to and perform your own activities.

Regular exercise may prevent or even provide relief from many common chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, depression, and arthritis, to name a few.

Try to incorporate at least 30 minutes of activity into your day, every day. The options are endless.

Start walking in the mornings, join a yoga class, try jogging with a friend or gardening in the afternoons.

Make sure you choose activities that you enjoy, that way you will be more likely to make them into a habit.

TIP 3: GET REGULAR PREVENTIVE CHECK-UPS.

See your doctor regularly. Remember your doctor is your partner in healthcare. The two of you are working toward the same goal - your optimum health.

By having regular check-ups, you may be able to catch small problems before they become big problems. It is also important to have regular dental and eye exams.

TIP 4: AVOID SMOKING.

Smoking is the number one cause of preventable death. It is never too late to quit. Your body will begin to feel the benefits almost immediately.

After one day of quitting, your risk of having a heart attack decreases. Avoid passive smoking as well as this can also lead to serious illness not just to you, but to the people around you.

TIP 5: BE SAFE.

Use common sense and be street smart.

Just a few ways you can put safety first include; Always wear your seatbelt; Do not go for a run or walk alone especially at night to reduce potential risks such as unforeseeable illness attacks or theft; Use medicines wisely.

Follow directions and ask your doctor about side effects and drug interactions; and finally, keep your home well lit. Remove items (like loose wires or throw rugs) that could cause you to fall.

TIP 6: AVOID ENVIRONMENTAL EXTREMES.

Protect your skin when you are outdoors by using a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.

Try to avoid getting too much sun and dress appropriately for the weather.

TIP 7: CULTIVATE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS.

Get to know your neighbours. Take the time to be involved with your community.

By creating a strong social network, you will have friends to celebrate with when good things happen and a support system in difficult times.

Staying in touch was particularly mentioned during the opening of this year's Knowledge Convention, whereby one of the ways to achieve both the benefit of our life on Earth and the hereafter is by maintaining a good relationship with Allah the Almighty and amongst fellow mankind. Don't forget to reach out to friends who might be isolated or feel lonely.

TIP 8: STAY POSITIVE.

Studies have shown that people who have a positive attitude tend to live longer and lead healthier and happier lives. Try to avoid taking thing personally. Look for the patience and humour in life. Being patient is a virtue and laughter is one of the best medicine. Several studies have shown that laughter makes you feel better. But, who needs a study to prove that? Just laugh, and you will know it is true.

TIP 9: AGEING IS A BLESSING, BE THANKFUL OF IT.

Ageing and those who are aged are seen as valuable sources of information and experience instead of being viewed as obstacles. Malik ibn Al-Huwayrith narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), said, "When the time for prayer is due, one of you should announce Azan and the oldest among you should lead the prayer." (Al-Bukhari). This goes to show that ageing should not be treated as an obstacle, but instead, as a privilege and an asset.

Staying healthy and feeling your best is important at any age and that doesn't change just because we get older.

As we grow older, we experience an increasing number of major life changes, including-career changes and retirement, children leaving home, the loss of loved ones, and physical changes. Living active, productive lives helps us handle and grow from these changes and is the key to staying healthy. (Ministry of Health)

Source:
@BRUDIRECT.COM

by BruDirect.com

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