The OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) reports that aging is one of the four “megatrend” disrupters of this era. Disrupters force change in the status quo. In 2015 the World Health Organization (WHO) redefined healthy aging from “absence of disease” to “functional ability”. According to Michael Holdin, CEO of the Global Coalition for Aging, by redefining healthy aging and connecting it to personal freedom, fiscal sustainability and economic growth the WHO report is leading the way towards a monumental shift in the way we see and understand aging. For the first time ever health policy is marked as an essential milestone to better lives, individually and for society.
Aging is inevitable, biologically though it is programmed to be a slow process. Dr. Henry S. Loyd says that most of what we call aging, and most of what we dread about getting older, is actually decay. Decay is optional, which means that most of functional aging is optional too. The idea of “normal aging” – which we conveniently use as excuse – is myth. Scientific research proves that disability and chronic illness can be prevented or delayed through health education and promotion. And, that this should be considered cure.
Regular exercise, for example sends chemical signals that cause the body to respond by becoming leaner, more powerful and efficient. More energized. The brain changes as well – a side effect of feeling better as a result of exercising – by developing a mood of optimism. The sooner one starts to incorporate regular exercise the better for both long term resilience, and for cultivating a daily lifestyle habit of exercise. Life is an endurance event – train for it.
In 20 years there will be more people globally over 65 than under. This is a truly disturbing thought. We are facing a state of affairs in which the mass of older people will be supported by a vastly outnumbered young. This is economically and socially unsustainable. It is also unfair. The 100-year lifespan is rapidly approaching. Retiring at 55, sitting around getting drunk and getting fat just won’t do. Longer lives are creating a vast pool of experience, capability and wealth that can potentially drive 21st century economic growth. It’s time for a proactive corporate response, for the over 50’s to step up to the plate with purpose and take charge of their health. What will it take?
“Functional ability” is not only about a life that is fulfilling in older years but also about our collective success. We need active participation, intergenerational collaboration and open-minded respect to ignite the fire, and move us forward with bold solutions. It’s time to WAKE UP to the global impact aging is having on life as we know it. There will soon be two billion people over 60. Aging isn’t just about the old. It’s about all of us, about health, activity, work and financial planning.
So get off the chair. Get moving. Sweat. Push. Get out of your comfort zone. Share your knowledge. Get involved in your community. Help. We are all in this together. It starts with each one of us now.
Ya’ta eeh (Navajo for all my relations)!
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