I have decided to write on the aging process and ways to approach it in a healthy way. It is well known that as we age, men and women develop hormonal deficiencies, bone and muscle loss and become more prone to vascular diseases and malignancies as well as anxiety and depression. However, with knowledge, medications and technologies many of us are living well into our 80s and 90s.

The first major goal in the aging process is to maintain a healthy and positive attitude. It is easy to become depressed and anxious about changes in our physical bodies and emotional stresses that can interfere with many of our daily activities and hobbies. Personal connections to family and close friends are extremely important, as well as even having pets to help comfort us. Some type of connection with religious or civic organizations, and regular outings are also helpful. Additionally, volunteering for charitable groups or animal shelters can be very rewarding.

It is also important to keep our brain functioning with activities such as reading, doing puzzles, and playing types of games, as opposed to constant screen time with TV or computers. Physical activities such as walking, aerobics and calisthenics will help maintain both physical and mental health.

There are many newer recommendations for proper diet for health maintenance, but the major points are avoiding sugars and excess carbs, consumption of healthy fats such as Omega-3, eating fresh fruits and vegetables and supplementing with vitamins and minerals as needed.

The last recommendation, but not the least, is to continue regular medical checkups with your primary care provider. Bloodwork, immunizations, cancer screenings and physical exams can help us not only maintain our health, but spot troublesome changes that could affect our well-being and longevity.

I wish all of our clients and patients the best for Christmas and into the New Year, and appreciate the loyalty and good relationships we have had for the last 28 years here in Wayne County.

Dr. Perry Williams