Dr. Bill Thomas: Human Beings Are Primed to Age Well
/By 2030, there will be about 72.1 million older persons(65 years or older), more than twice the number in 2000. Aging is inevitable, but how can we choose to embrace it? The key is to think about getting older when your young and make lifestyle choices that will make that process enjoyable.
Dr. Bill Thomas: Healthy Aging is Possible
Recently, we had Dr. Bill Thomas on World Health News Radio. Dr. Thomas is an aging expert, renowned author and speaker and his new book "Second Wind" talks about embracing the process of aging as a natural, healthy part of life.
There is a new conversation around death in this country. Frontline, from PBS, aired a new documentary following writer and physician Atal Gawande, exploring relationships with patients near the end of life. It shined a light on this new conversation around death. Many people see the failures of healthcare and medicine in regards to helping people navigate the final stages of life.
Dr. Thomas Debunks 3 Myths of Aging
Myth #1: Cognitive Decline is Expected. We aren't necessarily going to experience memory loss. New research shows that cognitive or mental function is preserved in otherwise healthy older people.
Myth #2: Universal Decline. Function and capacity can be easily maintained as we age. Adding new skills is possible and beneficial to this process.
Myth #3: Happiness fades as we age. Information from an international poll and other sources says that Americans are probably least happy in their late 40s and early 50s. From there, happiness grows – especially a contented happiness that is tied to being present in the moment.
Exercise: Fountain of Youth
“Exercise is the fountain of youth, the cornerstone of a healthy aging process. It’s how you maintain a healthy, vibrant, old age. ”
If you desire an old age, that is vigorous and full of life and vitality, you must exercise. Dr. Thomas notes: "When you're in your 30s, 40s, 50s and you choose not to exercise, you're choosing to be more frail and more dependent in your 70s, 80s, and 90s." Genetics plays a role in aging but sometimes it's challenging to pinpoint its exact effect. A healthy lifestyle with smart eating and moderate-to-intense exercise will ensure a healthy aging process.
Aging Through Science and Pop Culture
The science of aging is pretty clear. But popular culture throws anti-aging messages at us every day. "Quick fix for wrinkles." "In 15 minutes, you'll look younger." Do these messages sound familiar? This mindset has infiltrated our culture and become the narrative around aging. But what about the science?
The science is straightforward. Human beings are extremely good at aging. "Of all living creatures, we're the best at aging," noted Dr. Thomas.
The way scientists measure aging begins at age 28 years. The strange and ironic fact about human life, is we spend most of our life aging. Research says, human aging is a normal process. It changes us gradually over time in the way water changes stone.
As we start to age, if feels as though time passes by faster. But if you feel that way, that's actually a healthy sign of aging.
Dr. Thomas' Age of Disruption Tour
Dr. Thomas is currently on his new speaking tour: Age of Disruption. Blending myth and science, music and visuals, Dr. Thomas shows audiences how to turn the tables on “Life’s Most Dangerous Game” and how to approach aging with the skill and enthusiasm it requires. He'll be in NYC this week. You may be able to get last-minute tickets.