95-year-old’s top tips for good health in old age
New research has revealed New Zealand's average life expectancy is continuing to climb among both men and women.
While Kiwis are living longer it's not to say we're living better quality lives.
A recent study published in The Lancet reveals that across the developed world life expectancies continue to climb, pushing above 90 for the first time. South Korean women born in 2030 are expected to live to 90.82 on average.
New Zealand men born in 2030 rank sixth with an expected life of 83.6 on average, while Kiwi women place 16th with an average life expectancy of 86.
"We may be living longer, but it's worthwhile asking if we're living better. There will likely be more people living with some kind of disability or illness," says University of Otago professor Tim Wilkinson.
"While we expect the average age to level off at some point it shows no sign of doing so." he says.
If 90 is going to become the new norm then what can we do to maintain good health in our twilight years?
Mt Maunganui resident Joy Chappell is 95-years-old and enjoys a healthy, active lifestyle. She attributes her long life and health to a number of long-held routines and habits.
8 tips to a healthily life at 90
- Have a positive outlook. “I think the outlook we have is a big part of it. If I ever have any aches or pains I think 'o well they'll go away', and they do."
- Exercise regularly at any age. "I exercise once a week at the Get Fit class held at my retirement village. Up until recently I had a mini trampoline in my bedroom and most mornings I'd get out of bed and jump on it to get the blood flowing."
- Avoid alcohol. "I have never drunk spirits in my life and don't really drink any other kind of alcohol, I have no desire for it. A lot of people I know drink alcohol at night and I don't think that's great for your health."
- Don't over-eat. "I stop eating when I feel full." It's the simplest way to maintain weight, she says.
- Eat a healthy breakfast. "I have porridge every morning with a seed mix and turmeric sprinkled over top and I’ll have some fruit too."
- Stay hydrated. "I drink a lot of water. There's always a glass beside my bed."
- Keep your brain active. Chappell enjoys Scrabble and looks forward to playing with her friend several times a week. She also plays Sudoku.
- Take supplements where needed. "I take fish oil and calcium capsules daily and sometimes I’ll have a spoonful of molasses or cod liver oil if I'm feeling under the weather."
Written by Laura Baker. First appeared on Stuff.co.nz.