The idea of living a very long and happy life is a goal that is universal. Every one of us would like to reach the 100-mark and beyond, but what does it take to get there? History has shown us a slew of amazing seniors that have lived to a ripe old age, and many of them have quite a few things in common. From your physical activity to your ego, it turns out that personality traits and habits can really affect your longevity. Here are 7 things that the oldest seniors throughout history all share.
1. Productive, Active Lifestyle
It's a widely accepted notion that your physical activity has a lot to do with your health and well-being. For our oldest seniors, staying active is key. For those who are lucky enough to reach the top of the charts, activity is something they have in common. Not only does staying physically active help keep you healthy and living longer, but finding purpose can be even better. Seniors with a productive and purposeful life tend to live longer; whether it's working a job, practicing a hobby, the community, gardening, or something else.
And staying active includes the brain as well. Studies have shown that people and seniors who keep their minds sharp and flex their mental muscles with hobbies, physical activity, experiences, and activities that keep the brain's juices flowing tend to live longer than those that become "bumps on a log."
2. Positive Mindset
Research has shown that seeing the glass as half-full can have a much stronger bearing on your life than expected. People who have challenged the status quo and reached ripe old ages tend to have a much more positive attitude than those who don't. These positive thinkers are hopeful and always searching for solutions. Instead of finding devastation in a problem, seniors with positive personalities have taught themselves that they can get through anything.
Who knew that always thinking for the best could help you live longer? Learn how to stay calm, de-stress, and prioritize problems, and you'll be well on your way.
3. Resilience & Adaptability
Change is inevitable. Whether it's a good change or a bad one, they happen continuously throughout our lives. Some people struggle through change and some adapt easily. Longevity and happy lives can be associated with a person's ability to go through changes and adapt to them.
Our oldest warriors have the proper skills to accept things they cannot change and recover from them. They are also able to find solutions and fight for the things they do have control over. In essence, your 100-year old senior has probably gone through a lot but knew they would be fine, no matter the change. When faced with any kind of challenge, it's important to always tell yourself that you will get through it. Only the solution is important.
4. Healthy Weight & Overall Nutritious Diet
Let's be honest, this one is pretty obvious. When a person is overweight or has a hard time managing weight, there is always an increased risk to your health. And what you put in your body can have a lot to do with not just your weight, but how you feel and live your entire life.
Eating a diet that is nutritious and balanced can produce a healthy mindset, reduce the risk of a variety of diseases and illnesses, and also provide structure for a lifestyle that is also beneficial to a long and healthy life.
5. Ability to Balance Stress
Stress and how you handle it can have significant impacts on not just your mental health, but your physical health as well. People who live beyond their expectancy tend to be even-keeled and cool as a cucumber because they know that in the end, everything will be okay.
After years of change, experiences, and memories, seniors who live the longest know that some things just aren't worth stressing over. History's oldest people tend to have the ability to de-stress and balance a life that is full of stresses and obstacles. These seniors were also able to prioritize their passion and stress, focusing on the things that really matter.
6. Good Self-Esteem & Stubbornness
People with low self-esteem tend to suffer in their personal and work lives because a lack of confidence can be associated with depression and anxiety, a lack of focus and productivity, a decrease in overall health and happiness, and more.
The seniors who have astounded us with their impressive lifespans all tend to have had a positive personal relationship with themselves. Confident and sure, these seniors don't really care what anybody thinks. They are not easily swayed by others' opinions and follow their heart by having great decision-making skills. So maybe, the key to a long life is being exactly who you want to be.
7. Close Bonds & Social Relationships
Loneliness and depression are common ailments among seniors, but those among us that live the longest tend to have strong ties and bonds to family and friends. Good relationships, as well as social interactions, help fight off things like depression and loneliness, which can have a tremendous impact on your physical and mental health. And as we all know, our health has pretty much everything to do with our longevity.
Those who have lived long lives are also involved with other things that create close bonds as well, such as religion, community, or other organizations. Having these bonds and relationships provides us with support, engagement, and of course, beautiful memories.
Though genetics and medical history have a lot to do with how long we may live, our personalities and how we live are just as important. As experts in senior care, Caring Senior Service helps provide your senior loved ones with all of the tools necessary to live their longest and happiest lives. Contact a Caring team near you for more information on the best of senior care!