Population aging is a global phenomenon that has led to a significant increase in the proportion of older people in many societies. As life expectancy continues to increase, there is a need to address the challenges and opportunities associated with aging. In this context, the concept of “Active Aging” has gained prominence, especially during the month of October, when it seeks to promote health and well-being in the elderly. In this article and from the hand of the specialists of CanaryDoctor, we tell you several interesting facts about Active Aging in Canary Islands.
What is?
Active aging is based on the idea that aging should not be seen as a passive process of decline, but as a stage of life full of possibilities to maintain health, social participation and commitment to life. This holistic approach recognizes that quality of life in old age is not only related to the absence of disease, but also to the maintenance of physical and mental functionality, as well as active participation in the community.
What are the components of active aging?
Active aging is based on several interconnected pillars that contribute to health and well-being in old age:
- Physical Health: Maintaining an active life through regular exercise is essential to prevent loss of muscle strength, osteoporosis and other age-related conditions. Exercise not only benefits the body, but also has a positive impact on mental and emotional health.
- Mental health: Active aging involves maintaining mental health through continuous learning, cognitive stimulation, and participation in activities that challenge the mind. Engagement in creative activities, such as painting or music, can be especially beneficial.
- Social participation: Maintaining strong social connections is essential for the emotional and mental well-being of seniors. Participation in community groups, recreational activities, and volunteering not only provides a sense of belonging, but also encourages interaction and mutual support.
- Nutrition and Balanced Diet: A balanced and adequate diet is essential for maintaining physical health and preventing age-related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods is essential.
- Self-care and Disease Prevention: Active aging involves taking proactive measures to prevent disease and manage existing medical conditions. This includes attending regular checkups, staying up to date on vaccinations, and taking medications as directed.
What are the benefits of active aging?
Promoting active aging has a series of benefits for both older people and society as a whole. By taking an active approach to aging in Canary Islands, the following results can be achieved:
- Improved Quality of Life: Active aging allows older people to enjoy a better quality of life by staying physically and mentally active, which in turn reduces the risk of chronic medical conditions and cognitive decline.
- Dependency Reduction: By maintaining physical and mental functionality, seniors can maintain their independence for longer and reduce the need for long-term care and assistance.
- Community Participation: Social participation and community engagement are essential for emotional and mental well-being. Active older people contribute their experiences and skills to society, which in turn strengthens social cohesion.
- Savings in Health Systems: Promoting health and well-being in older people can result in lower costs for health systems, as the burden of chronic diseases is reduced and the need for intensive medical care is reduced.
October: Active Aging Month
The month of October has become a particularly prominent period for promoting active aging on our islands and raising awareness of the challenges and opportunities faced by older people. During this month, a series of events, educational programs and awareness campaigns are carried out around the world and in Canary Islands to highlight the importance of this approach.
One of the key objectives of October and what we want to spread from CanaryDoctor, is to eliminate the stigmas associated with aging and foster a positive mindset regarding aging.
