Being resourceful has been found to be a key factor in enjoying a happy old age or not.
In a survey of 999 people aged 65 and over across the UK, Professor Ann Bowling* found that people who maintained their friendships, retained their independence and participated in social activities were more likely to experience well-being in their old age.
It’s too easy for us to say ‘oh I can’t play tennis anymore because my knees aren’t what they used to be’, or ‘I don’t understand computers, that’s for young people’. So you stop doing any sport or exercise. You sit and watch TV every night, instead of learning to Skype with your kids or friends abroad, because ‘I’m too old for all that stuff’.
There is no reason why age, which after all is just a number, should stop you from doing what you want.
Neuroscience research shows that we can renew brain cells by learning another language. Any personal trainer will tell you that muscles can be toned and strengthened by regular walking and jogging. Bones can become denser with weight training.
I’m not saying it’s easy to walk into a new class to learn yoga or sign up for computer classes at your local library. You have to push yourself, especially when you look around the class and realize you’re the youngest there.
I am learning to dance Bollywood and am by far the oldest dancer there. I love music. I can follow the steps when our teacher breaks them down and slowly goes through them. Then most of the time I lose it when the music continues.
I have persevered and get really excited when I can finally finish a sequence without making a mistake. And you know what, Bollywood dancing is not easy. A lot of it is the equivalent of patting your head and rubbing your tummy at the same time. Of the number who started the course, about half dropped out, all younger than me. To have excelled in the whole course feels like an achievement in itself.
The payoff is that every challenge you face builds your confidence, and with confidence comes control. Being in control of your life for as long as possible will keep you resilient and resourceful.
So let me ask you three questions:
• Do you regularly participate in a number of social activities?
• Do you keep in touch with friends and family?
• Will you try new things?
If you answered ‘no’ to any of the above, ask yourself why.
My challenge to you is to learn something new or join a social group before the end of the month. It will add fun to your life and you may even achieve a new skill.