Reflecting back on what I have learned in lectures, readings, and personal experience with family relative aging, I have a gained new insight about aging. I used to envision aging as a decline in physical and mental health as well as only being impacted by personal factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management. I learned that aging does not necessarily lead to a decline in all aspects health and only affected by personal factors, it is impacted by a multitude of influences such familial/community support, medical care, resource availability, housing/food security, and one’s built environment. In terms of aging affecting health, it is normal for elderly to experience the expected hearing, vision, and mental impairment yet even though there is certain cognitive decline, there is an improvement of emotional processing. Aging comes with much life experience thus a sense of perspective gained to not worry about the small problems of life and be able to develop a newfound confidence. When I think back to my grandparents and our conversations, they always give life advice and express a level of assertiveness when speaking on what they are passionate about. Aging on a structural perspective can be influenced by the provision of policies and infrastructure to support health and wellbeing across lifetime. An example could be communities providing accessible transportation to hospitals, grocery stores, pharmacies, etc. and ensuring affordable housing in built environments. In terms of aging in regard to a cultural level, there can be further respect and gratefulness for our elders; this can be illustrated by having meaningful engagements with family, friends, fellow elderly, etc. Whenever I visit home, my grandparents always put in an effort to spend time with my siblings and I whether we are having a conversation, watching movies, or shopping. In terms of aging in regard to an individual level, it is important to remain physically and mentally active. A few of examples could be having a nutrient-rich and plant-based diet, exercising regularly, and have a sense of spirituality. All aspects of aging can be influenced by many factors, however, it takes an entire community to ensure an equitable opportunity for healthy and prosperous aging.
1 Comment
Leonardo Aviles
3/12/2021 08:49:00 pm
Just like you, I believe that there are structural barriers/obstacles that negatively impact the aging process that are also affecting older people right now. And as younger generations become aware of these challenges, we are motivated to break them down because we understand that will also be impacted by these barriers in the future. I also agree with you that our health begins with ourselves and our habits that we carry from day to day - physically, emotionally, mentally, and more ways in which we experience life. When we realize how important and necessary it is to take care of ourselves, we feel satisfied and rest in an energy of abundance where we then begin to care for one another. A strong form of communication and connection that is sustainable and healing.
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Katlyn marie MonteKatlyn is a Molecular and Cell Biology major from Eastvale, CA. Fun Fact, in her free time, her and her grandma cook Filipino food together. Archives
April 2021
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