Growing old does not mean growing feeble

An age-old question: "Do I have to grow 'feeble' as I grow older?"It's true that some people are vigorous at 80, while others seem old at 60. Yet, life expectancy in the United States has increased so dramatically in this century that the terms "middle age" and "old age" are changing significantly.In fact, the notion of 65 as the gateway to old age has begun to seem old- fashioned. Today people often regard themselves as still middle aged in their late fifties and sixties.People in their seventies and older often retain their health and energy. Technically, "young old" age begins at 70 and "old" age begins at 85.If you've older than 45, you may be familiar with a slow down of memory. For instance, names and facts may become harder to retrieve. Yet knowledge and good judgment usually increase with experience. Fortunately, mental capacity does not need to deteriorate, especially in people who continue to learn and think who are well nourished and exercise their bodies throughout their lives. One thing that makes a difference is keeping the mind in shape. Try working, reading, taking classes, talking to others, cultivating a hobby, playing games or traveling.Regular exercise is also helpful. It not only helps preserve, but may also enhance neurological functioning in older people who have previously been sedentary.The Annuals of Internal Medicine reported, "Functional aerobic age is probably lowered by the conditioning effect of repeated exercise." This simply means exercise makes you younger. Many studies have indicated that exercise prolongs life. Even engaging in light sports for two hours a week increases life expectancy.Older people can start an exercise program at any age and have short-term physiological benefits as well as a reduced incidence of chronic diseases.Exercise can improve both cardiovascular fitness and strength. It can help lower blood pressure, raise HDL ("good") cholesterol levels, relieve emotional stress and help with weight control.Exercise such as running or walking may delay or prevent osteoporosis, the bone loss that comes with aging. People who exercise almost always say it improves their sense of well being.Start slowly and increase the length and intensity of your workouts gradually if you are starting an exercise program in mid-life.It's probably a good idea to check with a doctor before you significantly increase your exercise. Sandy Shepardson is the owner of the Curves franchise store in Lincoln, as well as three in Roseville. She is certified as a personal trainer and functional resistance trainer. She also holds a certification from the Cooper Institute in circuit training and weight management for successfully completing academic credits in the fields of kinesiology and nutrition. Her column appears monthly in the News Messenger.