5 key principles to stay mentally healthy after 60
<p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.drrosswalker.com/" target="_blank">Dr Ross Walker</a></span> is a leading integrative cardiologist, endocrinologist and author, specialising in the field of preventative cardiology.</em></strong></p>
<p>The 60s and beyond – it is often during this period of our life that we are slightly winding down and for the lucky ones, heading into retirement. One of the issues here is the "use it or lose it" principle. We need to keep our brain active for the rest of our lives and there are five key principles in doing so:</p>
<p><strong>1. Keep working or maintain an interest in your profession</strong></p>
<p>If you are able to do so, working in your current profession is one of the best ways to keep your brain sharp and active. Although the work may be overly familiar by now, you are at least tricking your brain into different tasks.</p>
<p><strong>2.Challenge your brain</strong></p>
<p>You can do this through the use of techniques such as crosswords, pseudo Q, and brain training. People who are learning new language or are bilingual have a less chance of experiencing Alzheimer's disease as they age. If you’ve always wanted to learn a musical instrument, pick it up if you have the time once you have hit 60! Do adult training courses, and read challenging books. There are number of ways to keep the brain active and as the Nike commercial says-just do it!</p>
<p><strong>3. Change</strong></p>
<p>They say that death and taxes are the two guarantees in life, but another constant is change! Open yourself up to the idea of change. Try something different, do different things using other methods, travel to new and exciting places, discuss issues with people who have opposing views. Never be afraid to challenge yourself.</p>
<p><strong>4. Interact and spend time with optimistic people</strong></p>
<p>Surround yourself with friends, families, and loved ones. Even if you don’t feel like it, interacting with these people will keep you happy and content, and it gives your brain a break from its normal routine. Volunteering to help kids and animals is also a sure-fire way to surround yourself with positivity.</p>
<p><strong>5. Be optimistic yourself</strong></p>
<p>Getting older might be scary, but there is also something incredibly rewarding about this achievement. Not only does it give you more time to do the things that you love, it gives you the opportunity to spend more time with grandchildren or loved ones, and do something you never thought you’d see yourself doing – like taking up a new hobby.</p>
<p>Is there a hobby that you have always wanted to try, but have never had time to take up until now? Let us know what it is in the comments below.</p>
<p><strong>Related links:</strong></p>
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<p><a href="/health/body/2016/01/cardiologist-tips-for-better-heart-health/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">5 tips from a cardiologist for better heart health</span></em></strong></a></p>
