Midlife Matters: Diane Amelia Read
Lifelong independence has been my goal for as long as I remember.
During my senior year of college, I dreaded the question, “What are your plans after graduation?” I had no idea, so I quipped, “I’m going to live to 100, and be healthy enough to enjoy it.”
Chronological Age vs. Health Age:
Little did I know I was setting two markers for myself. Living to 100? That’s Chronological Age. It’s completely straightforward … the number of years a person has lived since birth. Period.
Being healthy enough to enjoy it? That’s Health Age, and a much more malleable number. Health age, aka Biological Age, reflects the condition of our bodies and minds relative to our chronological age. Health age is influenced by things like lifestyle choices, genetics, diet, exercise, and mental health.
These two measures aren’t in lockstep. It’s possible to have a health age that is younger or older than your chronological age. While chronological age is fixed, the good news about health age is that it can be improved through healthy habits and behaviors.
“Being healthy enough to enjoy it? That’s Health Age, and a much more malleable number. “
Independence:
As an only child with two working parents, I learned to do a lot of things for myself. My sense of independence developed from an early age.
As years pass, I’m acutely aware of wanting my health age to support life-long independence. To be able to say yes! when invited to play on the floor, to travel, to finally master that dang surfboard. I want to live pain free, to open my own pickle jars, to stand like a flamingo … should the urge strike … without tipping over. I want to go into the bathroom unassisted, always.
A Tale Of Two Realities:
In the final chapter of her nearly 97 years, my mom’s mobility declined. She struggled with the consequences of long-term overeating and under-exercising. I witnessed her abilities change … first moving more slowly, then using a walker, then restricted to a chair and needing two people to help her “toilet.”
Conversely, her mind remained sharp. At 85, she learned to play the dulcimer. Joined a group. Played gigs. The following year, she got a beau. They went to lectures on anything and everything. She rescheduled our standing phone date so she could attend “The History of Buttons.”
The Triad To Achieve Lifelong Independence:
Seeing the counterpoint between my mom’s mind and body was attention-getting, so I looked into practices that would help keep my whole self in tune and in sync. Three things stood out that support lifelong independence.
1. Moving Your Body With Consistency and Intention:
Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining strength and mobility. It helps prevent chronic diseases, improves balance and coordination, and enhances overall well-being.
Try this: Strength Training With Resistance Bands. Strength training is essential for maintaining muscle mass and bone density, both important for maintaining mobility.
“Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining strength and mobility.”
Here’s how: Use a resistance band to perform simple exercises such as bicep curls, overhead presses, and leg lifts. Aim for two to three sets of 10-15 repetitions for each exercise.
Resistance bands are affordable, portable, and can be used at home or on the go.
2. Keeping Your Brain Sharp:
Challenging your mind helps maintain cognitive function and grows neural pathways. Learning new skills, solving puzzles, and engaging in intellectual discussions keep your brain cells firing.
Try this: Learn a New Language. Learning a new language is an excellent way to keep your brain challenged. It enhances memory, broadens your cultural horizons, and how cool to speak another language!
Here’s how: Dedicate 15-30 minutes daily to learning a new language using apps like Duolingo or Babbel. Consistency is key to learning so practice a little bit each day.
Personal note: When we moved to Mexico, I didn’t speak Spanish. I can attest to how language learning is a bootcamp for the brain!
3. Getting Out There:
Having a strong social network is essential for emotional well-being and can significantly impact your ability to live independently. It provides a sense of purpose, reduces feelings of isolation, and can offer support if needed.
“I can attest to how language learning is a bootcamp for the brain!”
Try this: Join Others. Whether it’s a book group, gardening club, or volunteer organization, joining others helps you build connections and stay engaged with life.
Here’s how: Find a group that aligns with your interests by checking community centers, libraries, or online platforms like Meetup. Attend regular meetings and events to build relationships and stay active. Take on a leadership role or organize activities to deepen your involvement.
Bonus points for pairing social connections with mind challenges like discussion groups or weekly French conversation practice!
No Dabbling. Make It Non-Negotiable:
This is a long game that’s never “done,” and consistency with these habits is key to maintaining independence throughout your life. Grab your calendar and block out time for daily physical activity, mind stimulation, and at least one meaningful conversation. Add in your family, social, and community engagements to round out your independence longevity triad.
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About the Author:
Diane Amelia Read is an experienced growth partner, health and mindset advisor, stereotype disrupter, and surfer wannabe. She’s a Reiki Master Teacher, podcaster, StreetWise MBA graduate, and samba singer, Law of Attraction mentor, and motivational speaker.
Her mission is to make the world a more loving and interconnected place by helping women love themselves first so they can bring their most joy-filled awesomeness to everyone and everything else without depleting themselves
As a Mind & Body Alchemist For Women Over 50, Diane Amelia’s unique personal transformation toolbox is chock full of options for midlife women ready for sustainable improvement in their health, confidence, mindset, income, community, or all of the above.
