As we age, our bodies naturally slow down, but that doesn’t mean life has to slow down too. According to Dr. Stephanie Rogers, a professor of medicine in the division of geriatrics at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, the healthiest older adults she treats have one thing in common: they avoid getting too comfortable.
Challenging the Body and Mind
Rogers wants older adults to keep pushing themselves physically, cognitively, and socially, but not to the point of overdoing it or causing harm. This approach, she says, can help strengthen cells and improve overall health. The idea is that exposing the body to low amounts of stress can stimulate growth and regeneration, a concept known as hormesis.
For example, doing the same strength exercises over and over can lead to stability and strength, but it can also cause other areas to atrophy. Switching up your routine, on the other hand, can stimulate muscles, nerves, and joints in new ways, building strength and improving balance and mobility.
Rogers emphasizes that it’s essential to have fun and enjoy the process of challenging oneself. If an activity is not enjoyable, it’s okay to switch gears and try something new. The key is to find activities that bring joy and stimulate the body and mind.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
