Basic HTML Version
Sept./Oct. 2011
health
P e a c e H e a l t h
March/April 2012
Southwest
Getting bet er
with age
WE ’ VE A L L HEARD THE CL I CHÉ S ABOUT
things like fine wine, gourmet cheese and aged
beef getting better with age. But with the constant
barrage of images in the media depicting youth
as the pinnacle of life, it is sometimes difficult
to believe that if you’re older than 25, you’re
not past your prime.
However, there is good news for those of us
preceding Gen Y. In her book
The Secret Life of
the Grown-Up Brain
, Barbara Strauch explores the
latest findings that the middle-aged brain is more
flexible and capable than previously thought. We are
enjoying a longer and healthier midlife than ever
before, which is resulting in a wealth of knowledge
about aging gracefully.
Research asserts that in midlife, our brains actually
improve in some ways that make us happier and
wiser. As we age, we begin using our brain differently.
Although processing speed slows, we are better able to
engage the right and left hemispheres of the brain to
tackle problems. Our reasoning, problem solving and
intuition also improve. As a result, by midlife, we have
the capacity to be more courageous and confident,
more patient, and wiser than we were in our youth.
But what about aging and the rest of our bodies?
Luckily, many of the same things that are good for
your brain are also good for your body. Things like
eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise,
such as walking, stretching and strength training,
not only keep your body in top shape, but also help
your brain stay conditioned.
Of course, we may experience health challenges
as we age as well. Minor aches and pains can often
be alleviated with the proper nutrition and exercise.
For more pressing health concerns, the network
of providers at PeaceHealth Southwest is here to
help you heal so you can get back to living. Talk to
your doctor, sign up for a class or join your peers
in a support group.
In this issue:
Managing chronic pain
- page 2
Improvements in
breast cancer care
- page 3
Join us for the 50+ Connections
Senior Expo Sunday, April 29, 11 a.m.
to 4 p.m., Vancouver Hilton. Discover
resources, including free health
screenings, to support your active,
healthy, independent 50+ lifestyle.