The overall improvement in health and life, in general, has increased the chance for people to live and enjoy old age. However, as we grow older, many changes can also occur in our bodies. Aside from the decrease in physical capacity, these aging populations can also experience a decrease in mental and cognitive capacity over time. These changes in the body can happen visibly and unknowingly.
Although it is impossible to avoid aging from happening, there are still things you can do to reduce the signs. Read more about the signs, symptoms, and what you can do to delay or lessen the changes caused by aging.
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Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Dry and dull skin is one of the most noticeable signs of aging. As you grow older, you sweat less, and your skin produces less natural oil, resulting in fine lines and wrinkles.
In addition, your skin can also become more fragile, saggy, and wrinkled over time. Why is this? The production of collagen and elastin can slow down as you age, breaking down the skin’s elasticity.
Taking warm baths and showers can help lessen the dryness of the skin. Wearing sunscreen when going out or choosing comfortable protective clothing can be helpful too. Moreover, natural remedies like aloe vera and banana masks are some other things you can try.
These home remedies contain healing properties that can help make your skin healthier. Eating lots of food rich in nutrients are also beneficial to reduce wrinkles.
Weaker Bones
The bones can begin to weaken as early as age 40. This is because aging can cause the bones in the body to lose their density, calcium, and other minerals. Additionally, as you age, the cartilage in between the joints gets worn out, making the body shorter. Another contributing factor is osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is most prevalent in older women. This disease can cause the bone to become weak, brittle, or easily break. People with this condition have a higher risk of bone fracture that commonly affects hip bones, backbones, and wrists. Causes may include genetics, early menopause, calcium or vitamin D deficiency, and smoking.
Home remedies to keep your bones strong and healthy include eating lots of food rich in calcium, protein, vitamin D, and vitamin K. Regular exercise can also make your bones stronger. Furthermore, consulting a doctor for proper osteoporosis medications can help ease symptoms and slow down bone loss if severe pain occurs.
Changes in Teeth and Gums
Oral health is commonly affected by many factors. Typical oral health problems among older adults include dry mouth, receding gums, and cavities. Aside from normal aging, these problems can also occur because of health problems or medications.
As you get older, your salivary glands produce less saliva, increasing the risk of problems in tasting, chewing, swallowing, and mouth sores. Medications for conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and the like can also cause the mouth to dry.
On the other hand, receding gums among older adults are caused by pulling the gum tissues from the tooth. This can expose the roots, develop bacteria build-up, and cause decay.
Remedies may include practicing regular oral hygiene. For example, brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and using antiseptic mouthwash once or twice a day, can help maintain good oral health. For regular cleaning and oral examinations, visiting a dentist is a must.
Hair Loss and Color Change
Changes in the hair are one of the most evident signs of aging. As you age, hair thickness and color can change. Melanin produced by follicles contributes to hair color and growth. These follicles make less melanin in response to aging, thus causing the hair to gray or lighten.
Furthermore, with aging, your hair can also grow slowly, even causing hair loss. Women over age 70 can experience hair loss, while men can see earlier signs at age 30. This can also happen in some parts of your body where hair grows. Simple hair loss remedies include the following:
- Rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar mixed with warm water after shampooing can promote hair growth.
- Oil Massage. Doing a warm oil massage once a week using almond or olive oil can help achieve stronger and healthier hair. All you have to do is leave the oil for several hours or overnight, shampoo it after, and dry it.
- Aloe vera. Aloe vera is a natural remedy for hair growth. Massage and use aloe vera gel on the scalp for several hours two times a week to achieve the expected results.
Although changes in the hair are common during aging, consulting a doctor specializing in one is necessary if you experience sudden and excessive hair loss.
Conclusion
Changes caused by aging can happen directly or gradually due to a wide variety of accumulated damages in the body over time. Indeed, no one can ever take back time. Therefore, one should practice proper self-care and a good lifestyle to achieve support for physical health and eventually enjoy a healthy aging journey.
