To me, aging well is all about doing all that I can, within reason, to be the best version of ’me‘ possible. Physically and mentally. I have been doing that since my teenaged years and I expect that I will be doing it for the rest of my life. I measure ‘aging well’ by comparing myself against others within my age range and comparable peers in terms of general fitness and physical health. My objective has always been to be in the upper percentile of that measurement from the perspectives of cardiovascular capacity, strength and conditioning and generally good physical and mental health. I am not particularly concerned about the opinion of others, but rather, I choose to live this lifestyle for me. I choose to look at myself critically and make adjustments when necessary.
I hope to be able to do this for the rest of my life but I am aware of the effects of aging. After a certain age, it really comes down to pain management. As far as exercise goes, I do adjust my workouts to compensate for the inevitable joint issues and increased recovery time. The fact is physical limitations of the body increase proportionally with age. There will be ongoing adjustments but I would not stop unless I am physically unable to do so. That is my only fear. My only anxiety is about a physical or dietary limitation that might prevent me from doing what is necessary to be the best me possible.
Hindsight is 20/20. I have no regrets but I wish I knew 10 years ago that I would be making specific life changes today. I would have prepared better. The 21st century is much more stressful than the time our parents and grandparents grew up in. We have to be prepared. Lifestyle diseases are acquired through the choices we make. Maybe we should all build stronger bodies and engage in a healthier lifestyle. A younger body has many advantages over an older body. That is a fact. Fortunately, there are workout choices, food selections and nutritional supplement choices that assist with aging well now. It may take a bit longer but it is achievable.