Disclaimer: The content of the article is for reference only, the storyline is purely fictional, intended to popularize health knowledge, if you feel unwell, please seek medical attention offline.
On a sunny afternoon, a group of elderly people gathered in the community garden. Among them are Uncle Wang, who has just retired, and Grandma Zhang, who is over 80 years old.
An interesting topic is being discussed: why do some people live to be in their 90s, while others die in their 70s? This issue sparked a lively discussion, and everyone had their own opinion.
Just then, a newly moved Dr. Li passed by and overheard their conversation. Dr. Lee paused, smiled, and joined the discussion. His words opened the eyes of the old people present.
Dr Lee said that based on his years of clinical experience and research findings, 73 years old is a very critical age node. He referred to a long-term follow-up study in the Chinese Journal of Geriatrics, which found that around the age of 73 is a period of concentrated outbreaks of many chronic diseases, and it is also a critical period that determines whether a person can live longer.
This statement aroused great interest among the elderly present. Uncle Wang asked eagerly, "Then what should we do to get through this critical period safely?" Dr. Lee laughs, "Actually, the key is two things: maintaining good lifestyle habits and a positive and optimistic attitude. "
Dr Lee explains that good lifestyle habits include a reasonable diet, moderate exercise, and adequate rest. For example, he said that he once had a patient who was a retired chef who, despite being over 70, still maintained a healthy diet and daily walks.
This old man not only successfully passed the age of 73, but is now 88 years old and still in good health.
When it comes to diet, Dr Lee emphasises the importance of balanced nutrition. He referred to a study in the Chinese Journal of Nutrition, which found that the incidence of cardiovascular disease and cancer was significantly lower in older people who adhered to the Eastern Mediterranean dietary pattern for a long time.
The Eastern Mediterranean diet emphasizes eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and olive oil and less red meat and processed foods.
Grandma Zhang, who was present, nodded in agreement. She said that she has always insisted on eating lightly, eating more vegetables and fruits, and now she is 85 years old and her body is still very strong. Dr Lee applauded Grandma Zhang's approach, adding that moderate exercise is just as important.
Dr. Li mentioned that a study in the Chinese Journal of Sports Medicine showed that older people who did 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week had significantly better cardiorespiratory function and muscle strength than their peers who did not exercise. He suggested that the elderly can choose walking, tai chi, swimming and other exercises that suit them.
Uncle Wang was a little worried when he heard this, he said that he had some joint problems and didn't know if he could exercise. Dr. Lee reassured him that exercise is all about perseverance, not intensity. Even light activity, such as walking for half an hour a day, can have significant health benefits.
Dr. Lee then touched on the second key factor: a positive and optimistic mindset. He cited a study in the Chinese Journal of Psychology, which found that older people with a positive mindset not only lived longer, but also had a better quality of life.
For example, Dr. Lee said that he once met a retired painter who was always optimistic and cheerful despite suffering from multiple chronic diseases. The old man paints a picture every day and often participates in community events and interacts with young people. Now she is 92 years old and still in good spirits.
Hearing this, the old people present were thoughtful. Someone asked, "So how do we stay positive?" Dr. Lee recommends engaging in social activities, keeping in touch with family and friends, developing hobbies, learning new things, etc. He emphasized that keeping the brain active plays an important role in slowing down aging.
Dr Lee also mentioned that adequate sleep is also essential for the health of the elderly. Research in the Chinese Journal of Sleep Medicine suggests that chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and cognitive impairment in older adults. He advises that older people should get 7-8 hours of sleep a day.
After listening to Dr. Li's sharing, the elderly present felt that they had benefited a lot. They realize that although the age of 73 is a critical age node, as long as they develop good lifestyle habits and maintain a positive and optimistic attitude, it is possible to prolong life and improve the quality of life.
This story teaches us that longevity is not accidental, it is the result of the accumulation of bits and pieces in daily life. Whether it's a balanced diet, moderate exercise, or maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude, it is a key factor in prolonging life.
Let's work together to focus on our lifestyle and develop healthy habits from now on. Remember, every age is a golden period of life, and as long as we take care of our bodies and minds, we can live a wonderful life. Healthy and long life is not only responsible for yourself, but also the best reward for your family. Let's work together to create a bright future of health, happiness and longevity.