Have you ever heard of the term superager? In this article, we will be diving deep into the new phenomenon of getting stronger as you age by exploring facts behind how this can be possible, and how you can help yourself become a superager, too.
What Is a Superager?
A superager is someone who has grown old while still maintaining the brain capacity of a young person. Superagers are categorized as individuals who are at least 80 years of age and have memory skills that mirror someone at least 30 years younger. Superagers are not only more mentally healthy, but they are often physically healthier as the two go hand in hand.
The Anatomy of a Superager’s Brain – Reduced Brain Shrinkage
As you can imagine, scientists have deeply investigated the inner workings of the brain of a superager. Superagers are known to have reduced brain shrinkage, as observed in scan results and various tests. When the brain shrinks, there is a loss of brain cells which impacts cognitive ability. Superagers have been able to combat this and keep their brain at a relatively normal size.
How to Become a Super-ager
You might be asking yourself, how do I become a superager? Let’s explore some tips and tricks that are scientifically backed to help you age more gracefully and maintain your cognitive ability for years to come.
Stay Active
Physical activity is just as important as mental activity, as the two go hand in hand. Staying active is a great way to help keep your body mobile and your muscles toned and ready to work. Not only that, but many physical activities also blend into our social lives. From playing a team sport to joining a biking group, there are ways to mesh and combine the two easily.
Keep Learning
Never stop learning! Individuals who are eager to expand their knowledge and stay up to date with the world around them are able to have higher brain capacity for a longer amount of time. Keep asking questions when you are faced with an unknown situation, and don’t be afraid to not always be the smartest person in the room no matter your age.
Socialize Regularly
Humans are naturally social creatures, which is why it is so important for us to regularly get together with friends and families in a social setting. Make an effort to prioritize your social life by planning group dinners with your friends, traveling to family events, and hosting locally if you are able to do so.
Get 8 Hours of Sleep
Sleep is the secret to aging gracefully, so make sure to prioritize your shut-eye! If you are experiencing restlessness during the night, consider relaxation techniques before bed to help you get a good night’s sleep. Whether that is reading a book, doing a puzzle, practicing meditation, or taking a warm bath, these moments of self-care can help save you down the line.
Manage Stress
Stress is another attribute to consider when working on becoming a superager. Stress can be extremely detrimental to our bodies and minds, which is why it is so important to learn how to manage it. Next time you find yourself in a stressful situation, try to use coping techniques such as deep breathing, removing yourself from the situation, or practicing positive communication to help navigate the obstacle in front of you.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet is an important practice for people of all ages! Be sure to eat regularly if you do not already do so, this means prioritizing breakfast, lunch, and dinner every single day. Try to eat whole, real foods and avoid processed ingredients for best results.
We hope this article was helpful as you unlock the secrets of super-agers and navigate the aging process gracefully. For more information on navigating your personal health, be sure to contact NeuroBehavioral Associates today.
