by Tina Y. Gerber-McCurley
I will admit the last two years have been challenging with regard to health issues for both my hubby and myself. We are looking forward to a fresh start in 2025. However, we thank The Lord for every day he gives us.
As people age, they often face a variety of health challenges, and getting older can seem daunting with the arrival of grey hair and wrinkles and then forgetting where you put those darn car keys! All joking aside, seniors are more vulnerable to disease(s) and less able to fight them off. Making healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, losing weight, diet change and being physically active can make a huge difference. Chronic conditions such as Arthritis, Heart Disease, Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), Chronic lower Respiratory Diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Osteoporosis, Diabetes, Falls, Obesity, and Cancer are among a few.
Seniors over the age of 65 are living with an increased risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which can increase the chances of a stroke. Incontinence and constipation are both common with aging and can impact your quality of life. Substance abuse, such as alcohol or drug-related, is more prevalent among seniors than most realize. Sensory impairments, and problems such as vision and hearing are also common as you age.
Exercise, eating well, praying, and getting a good night's rest are important and powerful tools for becoming healthy. The sooner you understand your health choices, the sooner you can make the necessary changes to improve your long-term health outlook. You've heard the saying, "Let food be thy medicine, and let medicine be thy food." For starters, the food you include in your diet plays a critical role in controlling inflammation levels, balancing sugars and will help your digestive system process and eliminate waste. Food can act as a natural protector against disease to help slow the effects of aging. Our food choices matter as we age because our appetite declines, and we tend to consume fewer calories. To boost health and well-being, focus on nourishing your body, eating properly, and becoming mindful. An Ancient proverb says, "We live off half of what we eat and the doctors live off the other half."
My hubby has had more challenges than most: he has COPD, Diabetes, Obesity, and recently been diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). We have both become more mindful, especially in our prayer life. My husband's dedication, convictions, and love for the Lord always amaze me. Instead of saying, "Why me?" he continues praising God, thanking God, and giving God all the Glory. My husband says it's a cross he must bear but also a Blessing that God considers him worthy.
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