A guide to healthy aging for women

As many women, over 50 know that some things just do get better with age. However, aging also increases the risk for developing health conditions that can impact the quality of life. To take care of yourself at any age, you need to be well informed. Learn about the medical conditions that commonly affect women as they age — and what you can do to prevent or treat them.

Aging women and men differ in the diseases they face and their exercise and health needs. For women around the world the leading cause of death is heart disease. More women die of stroke than men. It is followed by breast cancer.

Breast cancer causes more death than any other cancers. Osteoporosis, osteopenia and osteoarthritis affect 34 million women. 5% more women of 71+ ages have Alzheimer’s than men. 18% of women of age 65+ are affected with depression. Research shows that 82% of women struggle with physical inactivity, 67% of women are overweight and 58% of women struggle with hypertension.

Most medical conditions and ailments that women face can be controlled and sometimes treated, so there is a possibility of reducing the number of deaths attributed to these illnesses.

There are few strategies that can be followed to prevent diseases and have a healthy aging.

• A proper diet can be followed. One must reduce fats and sugars to prevent amyloid beta proteins which are involved in developing Alzheimer’s. It is healthy to switch from animal protein to plant protein like legumes, soy and nuts. Switching to whole grains, fish and low diary which is known as the Mediterranean diet is another healthy option.
• Exercise is very important to stay healthy. 2.5 hours of weekly exercise is recommended by experts. In order to improve memory and learning – aerobics and resistance workout is advised. It is also helpful for developing new brain cells. Increasing muscle mass is helpful to prevent falls, fractures, brain atrophy and improve functionality.
• For mental health chronic stress has to be reduced in order for hippocampus (the part of brain linked to emotion, learning and memory) to improve. Women with mental health are advised to play fun, communal activities like board games, crosswords, reading, writing, playing music so as to increase brain health. Depression can be reduced through the benefits of social interaction gained through group workouts.
• Quitting tobacco, drugs and alcohol will help them to stay healthy for a longer period of time. As research has shown, a healthy diet, exercise and regular medical checkups are the key ingredients for healthy aging for women. Awareness of these health issues and prevention can lead to a healthy aging in women.