What is healthy ageing?

WHO defines Healthy ageing as creating the environments and opportunities that enable people to be and do what they value throughout their lives. Ageing is a natural process and staying 10 years younger in health status compared to actual age may be termed healthy ageing. One cannot expect the same health status of the 20s in the fifties, but one can expect the health of the 40s if the lifestyle is healthy and as per Ayurveda standards

What is the branch of Ayurveda that deals with ageing and its management?

Jarachikitsa or Rasayana Chikitsa is a branch of Ayurveda that deals with ageing and the management of ageing. Cleansing and nourishment of tissues are part of the treatment process in Jarachikitsa

What is functional ability of healthy ageing?

Functional ability is defined as a person’s capabilities to meet basic needs, learn, grow, make decisions, be mobile, build and maintain relationships and contribute to society. Healthy ageing is the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age Functional ability is measured in terms of the intrinsic capacity of the individual, relevant environmental characteristics and the interaction between them. The intrinsic capacity of a person is the mental and physical capacities that include daily life activities such as the ability to walk, think, see, hear and remember and is dependent on factors such as the presence of diseases, injuries and age-related changes

What are the common changes in old age and what are the healthy means to address them?

Heart and blood vessels: Stiffening of the blood vessels causes the heart to work harder to pump blood leading to high blood pressure (hypertension) and other heart-related problems. Moderate physical activity, healthy Ayurveda principles-based diet, healthy habits, stress management and good sleep help in reducing the risk

Musculoskeletal System: Bones weaken, height is reduced, fracture possibility increases and muscles lose strength, endurance and flexibility leading to problems in coordination, stability and balance. Enough protein, Vitamin D3 and calcium along with moderate physical activity help to keep the system healthy. Ayurveda external therapies are the best option

Digestive System: Constipation and bloating are the main problems due to a sedentary lifestyle, weakened enzymes and other medical conditions. A healthy diet, healthy eating habits and enough water are the remedies

Urinary System: Increased frequency of urination and incontinence are common problems. The tendency may disturb sleep also.  A healthy diet, regular bowel movement, reducing bladder irritants like alcohol and regular Kegel exercises are the preventive measures. Yoga postures like Mahabandha are very useful in the condition

Brain Functions: Changes in the brain can lead to forgetfulness and decreased cognition. Staying socially active, mentally alert, regular engagement and a healthy daily routine can help retain good brain function. A spoon of cow ghee in die is very helpful for brain functions as well as joint health

Eyesight and Hearing: Cataracts, glaucoma and other eye diseases affect people at that age. Hearing issues include diminished hearing are common issues. The practice of regular Ayurveda Dinacharya helps in managing the condition

Teeth and Oral Health:  Gaping, cavities, loosening of gums, dryness and other teeth issues are common age-related changes.   Regular brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, Kavalagraha, Oral massage and regular dental check-ups help manage teeth issues

Skin: Skin thins, dries up and loses elasticity and glow. Sagging, wrinkling, age spot and skin tags are signs of ageing.  Regular Abhyangam, enough water and a healthy diet are the preventive means

Weight Management: Balancing nutrition and weight through diet is a major challenge. Decreased physical activity also contributes. Hormonal balance, Proper daily routine, regular moderate physical activity and a  healthy diet with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, high-fibre foods and lean meat help to manage weight

Sexuality: Cultural and social environment, vaginal dryness in women, erectile dysfunction in men and physical weakness contribute to reduced sexual activity. It is important to stay sexually active. Physical intimacy without intercourse, foreplay, regular exercise and other means helps to stay sexually active and feel young

Emotional Health: Empty nest syndrome, changes in the family, illnesses, losing loved ones and the need to limit physical activities and profession may contribute to emotional vulnerability. Hormonal changes are also culprits. Active lifestyle, staying connected and increased engagement with partners help to manage the crisis

Ageing is a natural process that is not preventable. Acceptance and living healthily are the keys to happy healthy old age. Ayurveda is one of the promotive health care systems for healthy ageing

For more details and queries on Healthy Ageing and Ayurveda Possibilities and to have free counselling on Healthy Ageing with Ayurveda please feel free to

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SARATHY AYURVEDIC HOSPITAL DOCTORS PANEL

• Dr. Lathika PK-Specialist in Panchakarma, Stroke Rehabilitation and Ayurveda Cancer Care
• Dr. Valsaladevi K-Specialist in Panchakarma, Child Health, Ayurveda Diet, and Yoga Therapy 
• Dr. Karthik K Nandan-Specialist in Conventional Orthopedics, Marma and Varicose Veins
• Dr. Gayatri S-Specialist in Women Health, Cosmetology
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