It’s Okay to Grow Up: Tips for Successful Aging

We think that growing old is something to be sad about. In years past, our society has led us to believe that growing old means you are doomed to a life of knitting and porch rocking with a cat in your lap. This is so far from the truth. Growing old is a privilege and inspiring.

When you have raised your children and are enjoying life without the demands of parenthood, you find yourself in a place of learning and growing again. Successful aging is not always based on what you have accumulated in life.

He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age, for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has given birth to him. – Ruth 4:15, ESV

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Common thoughts about getting older

Throughout the years, misconceptions about aging have changed. There are still some that linger in the thought processes of most people. These thoughts have been around for decades based on the lack of information about aging. While the list is extensive, here are just a few of our most common ideas about aging as a society.

• As you age it is normal to feel depressed and lonely.
• The older you get the less sleep you need.
• After a certain age, you are unable to learn anything new.
• Older people do not need a social circle.
• Aging people cannot exercise due to the increased likelihood of injury.
• If you are old, you are poor.
• Older people shouldn’t be interested in intimacy.
• An aging person cannot contribute to society.
• Aging causes you to be set in your ways.
• The events of the world are no longer interesting to older people.

Wisdom is with the aged, and understanding in length of days. – Job 12:12, ESV

What is successful aging?

Just because our bodies are aging and our lifestyles have changed, doesn’t mean we are incapable of having a joyful and productive life after fifty, sixty, or even seventy years of age. There are so many ways we can enjoy a full life in our older age. Successful aging is more of a mindset than a to-do list. It is a frame of mind that brings you to a place of peace about your present lifestyle as an older person.

God did not create us so that we would live out our lives in depression because we reached a certain age. In fact, in the Bible, the lifespan was so much longer than what we experience today. Today’s life expectancy is much lower because the world is different, and we have so many health behaviors that affect our bodies.

This doesn’t mean we have to live a life of dread and disease. God’s word tells us that we should not worry about things in the world but focus on Him and change the way we think about everything.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. – Romans 12:2, ESV

Things to do for successful aging

As we grow older, we tend to fall into the trap of thinking that we can no longer do the things we once loved. While we may not be able to do them with the intensity we did in our younger years, we can still be active and healthy. The goal of successful aging isn’t being the best-fit person in the world. The goal is to maintain a healthy lifestyle that is acceptable to you. This will look different for each of us because each of us was created differently.

Remain actively engaged in your life

To make your life feel like it’s your best, you have to be engaged. That means pursuing things that are important to you. Chase the things that make you a better person physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Engage with others as you navigate a different lifestyle as an older person.

Be active in pursuing a healthy lifestyle physically, emotionally, and spiritually

When you want to live your best life, it is better to do it in a way that makes sense to you. Seek to be healthy in a way that makes you comfortable in your life. It’s not about whether you keep up with the neighbors. It’s about what works for you and helps you stay healthy in your body, mind, soul, and spirit.

Look for the upside in all things and understand how to cope

As we grow older, we know what it’s like to experience the hurts and struggles of this world. We understand the loss of a loved one. When all the kids are grown, we know what it means to have the house to ourselves again. These situations can be handled best by knowing that we will face them. Being able to cope with hurts and find positive ways to see changes helps you remain focused on the good in your life.

Graceful aging is what you make of it

At the end of the day, successful aging is best defined by you. It is your life and your pursuit of happiness. Whether you choose to travel or create an escape haven for your grandkids, success is defined by you.

Successful aging and activity

Remaining active as you grow older is a key factor in how you feel about yourself. When you are pleased with your health and your appearance, it is easy to feel successful. As with any age, careful planning regarding an exercise routine is recommended before jumping into a program. Take time to examine what you want for yourself and how you want to accomplish being physically healthy.

Do what you like to do

Society has become one that is all about doing your own thing. When it comes to successful aging, this is a bit different. The recommendation of doing what you like to do is not so that you can live a lifestyle apart from God. This means being active in the areas that you like. For instance, if you like to dance then dance! For those who enjoyed riding a bike in their younger years, ride a bike and get your activity level up. Other great ideas are Pilates, walking, swimming, and even yoga.

Before you get active, warm up

As with anything else at any age, warming up your muscles is a preventative measure against severe injury. This is not something that you should do as an older person. This is what you do as a person who wants to remain active.

Find a workout routine that works for you

You may be a person who benefits from being in a group atmosphere. If that is the case, then seek a place that has the ability for you to join a fitness group. Most gyms and fitness places offer various times and group styles based on your needs.

Online workout videos for those who want to stay home

If you are not comfortable working out in front of others, you can find an online workout that will fit your needs. There are great free and paid programs that allow you to stream videos and work out in the comfort of your own home.

Don’t overdo it; make it fun

The key to keeping an active lifestyle is to keep it in your abilities and keep it fun. For instance, if you have had knee surgeries you may not want to rock climb. If you have health issues that keep you from a hard cardio workout, then you may not want to sign up for an aerobics class. Whatever it is that you do always keep it fun. Uplifting Christian music is one way to keep it upbeat and fun!

Bible principles and getting older

Many principles in the Bible point us to successful aging. The most important one is how we are to pass along the knowledge of Jesus to our generations. Teaching our children and grandchildren about Jesus is one of the most precious gifts we can give. It is time well spent and wisdom that is worth more than gold.

So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come. Your righteousness, O God, reaches the high heavens. You who have done great things, O God, who is like you? – Psalm 71:18-19, ESV