Cutting Age

As of yet, there is no known way to reverse the aging process. But there are specific measures you can take to maximize your health as you age, especially in terms of lifestyle. One of the most important is one of the most simple: be happy. Possessing an optimistic and positive attitude, maintaining a sense of humor, having realistic expectations of yourself and your friends, and striving to see the best in yourself, others and the world around you— these can all do wonders. In addition, try these measures to maximize your health:

• Manage stress.
• Exercise your mind through reading, conversation or writing. And exercise your body for at least 30 minutes three times a week.
• Maintain a healthy weight while eating a varied and balanced low-fat, high-fiber diet.
• Manage chronic health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, poor hearing or vision.
• Discuss any and all unusual symptoms with your doctor rather than excusing something as a sign of aging.
• Know your family's medical history and any health problems for which you are at risk.
• Be diligent with self-exams, screenings, checkups and immunizations—including an annual flu shot.