By Brenda Cannon Henley
Last week I wrote a column about aging well. We all want to achieve this goal, and especially so, when one considers the alternative. I have received many suggestions and helpful tips about how to grow old gracefully and pleasantly and I have truly enjoyed hearing from our readers on this subject. I have attempted to combine and condense these suggestions into what I think were the most enlightening.

Some things in life we cannot change or eliminate in our lives. One friend wrote and said simply, “Life happens no matter what we may have planned.” I know this to be true.

Two things stood out in a number of articles I have read and in what our readers shared with me. When your life partner becomes very ill or passes away, that certainly can add to the aging process in a negative manner. Some folks never get over this event and withdraw from society as a whole.

The second most often reflection I read was the disruption of the familiar family structure. Death is only one loss people suffer. Another big one is when a family member, or several family members, choose to break away from the group for whatever reason – Whether for a real or perceived injustices or problems. It is sad and often brings undue heartache, especially to aged members of the family. This lifestyle change often adds to the poor aging process.

With those two being addressed, they are many more. Attitude ranks high on the list. What we allow ourselves to think about on a daily basis, what we meditate on, what we entertain, and what we believe all combine to affect our healthy aging.

Staying busy and being as active as our health will allow is a wonderful tool God gives to stay young at heart. Maintaining close friendships is important and keeping in touch is vital. We all need to know someone cares deeply about us.

Volunteering is good to keep involved and participating in the life of others. Many opportunities are available in most cities. Develop a new or helpful hobby. Eat better and try new things. Travel when you can. Read interesting books and attend community lectures, events, church functions, and other gatherings you perhaps have not had time for in the past.

It is your life. Live it to the fullest and let’s make up our minds to enjoy every single day God has given us.

Brenda Cannon Henley can be reached at 409 781 8788, or
[email protected]

You are welcome to share some good aging tips with me to share with our readers. Please include your phone number or email in case I have a question or need a clarification, as well as your city and state.

[March-15-2021]