Assess Your Current Behaviors

Are you doing everything you can now to enhance the quality of your life as you age? Read through the following list of statements and check the answer that best describes your current behavior.

Yes No  
I exercise regularly.
I eat wisely.
   
I eat meals low in fat and added sugars and high in essential nutrients and fiber (fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain cereals and breads, potatoes, brown rice, pasta).
I limit saturated and trans fats and get protein from fish, skinless poultry, and plant sources.
I use fat-free or low-fat dairy products.
I consume the recommended amount of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B-12.
I limit the amount of sodium I consume and consume adequate potassium.
My weight is in the recommended range.
I drink alcohol in moderation, if at all.
I don't use tobacco in any form.
I recognize the stressors in my life and take appropriate steps to control and deal with stress.
I perform appropriate self-examinations.
I have regular physical examinations that include appropriate screening tests.
I participate in activities that keep my mind sharp and active.


Thinking About Aging

Have you thought seriously about the changes that aging can bring? To help you begin thinking now about your life as you grow older, answer the following questions.

  1. What things come to mind when you think of an older person? Can you imagine those things applying to you? What do you think you will be like when you are 70 years old?

  2. What do you most look forward to as you grow older?

  3. What do you most fear as you grow older?

  4. How long would you like to keep working? What would you like to do after you retire? What hobbies or volunteer opportunities would you pursue?

  5. Have you considered the loss of income that retirement often brings? What can you do now to help meet your economic needs in the future?

  6. Older people often find themselves alone more frequently (due to the death of a spouse and/or close friends). Can you think of activities you enjoy doing alone?

  7. If when you are older you are no longer able to care for yourself, what living and care arrangements would you prefer?

  8. What would you do if your parents were no longer able to care for themselves?

  9. List five positive and five negative things about aging.