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Celebrate Our Seniors

The average age of a human being is 72 years. With advanced healthcare and development, senior citizens are living fitter and longer lives. 

Reaching age 90 in good health is a great longevity goal. There is a study and according to this study, the secret to living past 90 involved making a few lifestyle choices like not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, not having high blood pressure, getting regular exercise and preventing diabetes.

But not all reach age 90 and in good health. As per norms once you are 60 + you are labelled as a senior citizen. Don’t let age fool you; it’s just a number. 

With development, certain situations for our seniors have changed. The nuclear family system has created a void, a certain degree of isolation, loss of respect, lack of care and a sense of insecurity or depression.

Interestingly, everyone wants to live a long life but not to be old. Old age is an integral part of human life. It is inevitable. It is ironic that however undesirable it has to come. Most of us would face the pain and pleasures of this life. Old age completes the life pattern. It has its own pleasures though different from the pleasures of youth.

If I were a senior citizen, what is it that I would do to enjoy this phase of my life?

• Accept my age, as age is just a number and be grateful for this life so far.
• Stay active.
• Eat well. Eat healthy. 
• Engage in social activities.
• Sleep well. 
• Look after my health.
• Regular medical checkups.
• Join a library.
• Engage in field trips and excursions.
• Spend time gardening or visiting a park.
• Join group exercise classes like yoga, Pilates or meditation.
• Join laughter clubs.
• Smile a lot.
• Listen to music. Invite friends and enjoy a karaoke session.
• Spend time reading, keeping myself well-informed. 
• Try a new restaurant. Chat with people around.
• Take a walk regularly. 
• Meet friends and family.
• Make an effort to reach out to people.

I as a human being what would I do to make the life of a senior citizen comfortable?

• Devote some time to them.
• Talk to them.
• Listen to their stories.
• Accompany them to places.
• Help them in their daily chores.
• Assist them in learning technology.
• Be kind and caring.
• Be patient.
• Empathise with them.
• Learn about morals and values from them.
• Respect them.
• Appreciate their presence.
• Learn from their vast experiences. They are a power of wisdom.
• Visit an old age home.
• Create a secure environment.
• Teach them a new skill.
• Make them feel useful.
• Encourage self-esteem.
• Become a member of a social daycare centre.

Remember: Life is short and too precious. Life is beautiful, enjoy it!

As a senior citizen, a concerned family member, or a friend, would you like to provide yourself, your elderly parent, or your friend, additional support and also give yourself some respite?

If you are a senior citizen yourself or would like to learn how to better support them, connect with Kashmira Kakalia a profound mental health practitioner with ImPerfect.