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OLD AGE HEALTH PROBLEMStc "OLD AGE HEALTH PROBLEMS"

I underwent bypass surgery on August 18, 2001 in the United States of America.  During convalescence I read the book, Looking Younger, Staying Healthier, Living Longer by Dr. John J. Deller, a cardiologist.  In order to increase readability of the text, the author has used a few technical terms relying more on communication techniques, comprehended easily by common readers.  I feel like sharing his observations.

The social environments prevailing and the medical facilities available in USA are not found in developing countries.  Hence the guidelines suggested by Dr. Deller have been modified according to local conditions.  The yardstick followed for this purpose is common sense which is the best guide.

G.B. Shaw said ‘People dig their graves with their teeth� which implies that overeating or loose palate is as much responsible for ill health to early death as malnourishment is.  Gluttons look bulky, bulgy and ugly.

Dr. Deller states that in spite of improved living conditions in the States, the common old age diseases continue to be heart disfunctioning (number one killer), strokes, pneumonia and chronic lung ailments.

The deteriorating family system, increasing number of divorces and single parenthood breed depression.

Deller lists the risk factors leading to heart ailments as follows:

Major
i)     Smoking
ii)     Hypertension (high blood pressure)
iii)    Sticky blood                            

Secondary

i)     Sedentary life style                   
ii)     Obesity
iii)    Sticky blood                            
iv)    Diabetese
v)    Personality (hot heads) 
vi)    Enlarged heart
vii)    Post Menopause (in case of women only)

With the exception of ‘enlarged heart� all other risk factors can be minimized through preventive care.  The author has epitomized the key to looking younger, staying healthier and living longer through a single word ‘Formula� elaborated as follows;

F for ‘Fitness and Fuel�;
O for ‘Ounce of Prevention�;
R for ‘Realist Retirement Planning�;
M for ‘Mental Attitude�;
U for ‘Understanding yourself�;
L for ‘Loving Life� and
A for ‘Adaptation to Change�.

It implies minimizing the health risks, maximizing the resultant gains and optimizing the longevity.  His observations are a blend of science, philosophy and common sense. Let us explore them.

Fitness and Fueltc "Fitness and Fuel"

Body be kept fit and trim as it is the vehicle through which one experiences life.  It requires regular physical activity, emotional warmth and mental awareness. Hypocrites said aptly: ‘All parts of body which functions, if used in moderation, and exercised in labours to which each is accustomed, becomes thereby healthy and well developed.�

Hence hard exercises be avoided.  Idleness and sedentary habits be given up. Retirement offers abundant time. Utilise it properly with the slogan ‘Time for fitness�.
Fuel for  a  healthy and active   body   is determined  by  the
precaution ‘Man is, what he eats�. Hence,
eat lean, fats out � fibers in � fruits, vegetables and whole grain;
protein source should focus on fish and white of egg;
supplemented by A & E vitamins, minerals, calcium and zinc.
An aspirin a day does not let the blood grow sticky.

Ounce of Preventiontc "Ounce of Prevention"

Prevention being better than cure, regular medical check-ups be undertaken to guard off potential health hazards.  This practice inculcates positive health habits and constructive attitudes.

Retirement may usher in a golden phase of life.

Realistic Retirement Planningtc "Realistic Retirement Planning"

Retirement does not mean retreating from life. Being the golden phase it should be led methodically.
i)      Relationship with all family members including spouse be readjusted.  You have led your life.  Let others lead it in their own way.  Do not impose advice.  Neither feel ignored, if not consulted.
ii)     Manage to live within the budget.
iii)     Do not be cut off from your social
circle, particularly the old friends.
iv)    Explore constructive leisure pursuits.

Mental Attitudetc "Mental Attitude"

One’s attitude guides present and controls future.  Do not yield to invisible destiny but keep sticking to the chosen resolve.  Fate is not on the palm but in the strength of palm.

Understanding Yourselftc "Understanding Yourself"

Smile and not whine while you reconcile with yourself.  When you are convinced that you understand yourself, have the courage to declare what you are. Live according to your beliefs; not at the cost of others but within your means.

There are more self-marred people than the self-made ones. Many start with the ambition to transform the world, not heeding their family obligations. By fifties they feel frustrated and turn their attention to reform the society around them. When they find that they are a square peg in a round hole there too, they feel disenchanted and tend to improve their family relationship.  By that time they have missed the bus and find themselves deserted and dejected.

Hence the necessity to understand the adage ‘know thyself.’� Start with self-improvement to become an ideal parent model, a useful neighbour and responsible citizen.

Loving Lifetc "Loving Life"

Give up recalling adversities, relive in the memory of good days you passed.  Remember the good qualities of others, condoning their shortcomings.  Life is not like the evening news where bad events are headlined and good ones are footnoted.

Adaptation to Changetc "Adaptation to Change"

Change is law of nature, otherwise life stagnates. Your attitude should be ‘Golden age is ahead not behind�.