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 It is important to be "Healthy at any
Age" and to view aging as a
wonderful and rewarding part of our
lives. Aging must be understood not only
in terms of health but also with
reverence and attention to the mind and
spirit within the cultural framework of
every human being. An Integrative
approach is ideal to Healthy Aging.
I encourage families to read Dr Andrew
Weil's book on this subject available in
Autumn of 2005. An "Integrative Healthy
Aging Plan" can be individually designed
with a comprehensive evaluation followed
by specific options which include the
roles of diet, fitness, medications,
supplements and environment.
PREVENTION:
Health prevention of
chronic/degenerative illness is a major
factor in healthy aging. Although
genetic predisposition is always a
factor, the prevention of chronic
disease states such as arthritis,
dementia, diabetes and
cardiac-pulmonary disease can play a
major role in the delay of disease onset
and the severity of it's effect upon the
patient.
DIET:
Diet plays a integral part in both the
promotion as well as treatment of
healthy aging. Many diets today actually
promote the aging process by
contributing to chronic inflammatory
states, lacking essential nutrients or
be a risk factor for heart disease and
cancer.
EXERCISE:
In any quantity has been shown to
provide great health benefits and
vitality to our mind and body. Even
slow, purposeful, mindful movements such
as Tai Chi bring it's practitioner many
healthy rewards to their mind, body and
spirit.
ENVIRONMENT:
Environment can be toxic or healthy and
the choice can be ours to combat every
day's toxic challenges by enjoying the
wisdom of nature and it's offerings.
Whether it's a walk in the park or
working in a garden, a connection with
nature is essential to healthy aging.
ATTITUDE:
HEALTHY AT ANY AGE, In many cases we
have doubled the age of our ancestors in
the 19th century but through genetics,
the environment and habits, people age
at different rates. A 40 year old could
be considered old and aging "unhealthy"
while a 75 year old is experiencing
healthy aging and an active fulfilling
lifestyle.
THERAPIES:
Therapies should first include a
complete medical assessment to exclude
occult illness followed by a
specifically designed plan which will
address the patient's needs. This will
include many of the Integrative
therapies mentioned on this site.
EVALUATION:
Evaluations can be obtained by
contacting the office and preparing an
initial assessment form.
DR. WEIL'S BOOK:
Doctor Weil is a recognized leading
health expert on "Healthy Aging" and his
upcoming book will be an essential guide
in understanding our roles in the
natural life cycle. For more information
on Dr. Weil,
please click here. |
