Embrace Age: A Path to Mental Wellbeing
BY: Neighbors’ Consejo|
In a world that often glorifies youth, accepting our age can be a liberating act of self-empowerment. Embracing the wisdom and experiences that come with each passing year is crucial for our mental wellbeing. As we embark on this journey of self-acceptance, we delve into the art of letting go of societal pressures and avoiding the pitfalls of trying to appear younger. Join us to explore the profound impact of accepting our age on our mental health and discover the beauty of gracefully growing older.
“Elders that accept their limitations can still find ways to enjoy life. Take Karl Goldenthal, for example, an amateur photographer whose severe glaucoma prevented him from continuing his passion. Although this was difficult for him to accept, he found joy in sharing his knowledge and teaching others to take pictures [1] .”
According to World Health Organization (WHO [2] ): “Globally, the ageing population is growing rapidly. Between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years will nearly double, from 12% to 22%. Mental health and wellbeing are as important in older age as at any other time of life. Mental and neurological disorders among older adults account for 6.6% of the total disability (DALYs) for this age group.”
The Pan American Health Organization tells, “mental health problems are common among seniors and may include isolation, affective and anxiety disorders, dementia, and psychosis, among others. Many seniors also suffer from sleep and behavioral disorders, cognitive deterioration, or confusion states because of physical disorders or surgical interventions[L3] .”
How to accept and enjoy life at every stage [4] ?
- Practice self-acceptance
- Live with a sense of purpose
- Make friends with people of all ages.
- Prioritizing learning
- Stay active.
- Define your own path
In conclusion, embracing our age is a powerful act of self-compassion and a key ingredient to maintaining a positive mindset. Avoiding the pitfalls of trying to appear younger not only fosters genuine self-acceptance but also contributes to our overall mental wellbeing. Let us liberate ourselves from societal pressures, celebrate the beauty of growing older, and cherish the wisdom that comes with each passing year.
[1]https://danielamiller.com/2013/07/14/accepting-the-limits-of-old-age-brings-greater-happiness/
[2]https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-of-older-adults
[3]https://www3.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9877:seniors-mental-health&Itemid=0&lang=en#gsc.tab=0
[4]https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/conscious-aging-how-to-accept-and-enjoy-life-at-every-stage