4 tips on how to defy age expectations

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — In the Cannes International Film Festival winning film “Plan 75,” the notions of ageism and stereotyping are put to light. It is a fact that Japan is dealing with an issue of population aging and “Plan 75” challenges an ageist society to look at itself in the mirror. It is a deft film, one that raises interesting questions for many people who discriminate against old people.

This stereotyping can affect how we view ourselves and this involves everyone: for those of us who are already beyond what is considered “prime age” and those who are still young, as this kind of thinking can lead to risky behavior (see: the YOLO lifestyle), which can lead to unhealthy diet and reduction of quality of life.

Here are four ways to challenge ageism and prove that age is no limit when it comes to having a fulfilling life.

Practice mindful aging

Mindfulness has been becoming a more popular practice recently and research suggests that it has both physical and emotional benefits that can help overcome the challenges of aging. A study shows that some of the effects include strengthened immune system, better sleep, and positive effects on attention, general cognition, and memory. Overcoming the perceived limits of aging starts with the mind: how you think and how you feel better about yourself. From here, you can work on challenging the preconceived notions of what an aging person's capacities should be.

Know your worth

A person’s active and healthy life doesn’t stop just because they’re over 30. It just opens up more possibilities. While mindfulness gives you a chance to be more attuned with yourself, knowing your worth means not letting others think what you can and cannot do because of your advanced age. Don’t let yourself be pushed around or relegated to the sidelines. A specialist has remarked that having the right attitude can help overcome ageism and this means that you should see the value in yourself, and that can have an effect of how others think of you.

Get your body going

Being physically active as you age is something that’s often emphasized because of its benefits. But it’s also about finding the perfect activity that suits your body — and how you want to challenge yourself. According to the CDC, adults aged 65 and older are recommended “at least 150 minutes a week (for example, 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week) of moderate intensity activity such as brisk walking.” Or “75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity such as hiking, jogging, or running.”

According to an expert, sports participation is a great way to motivate yourself to keep moving as you age. “Sports can provide a great way for aging adults to improve their cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal strength and even coordination and balance. Not to mention, it’s a great opportunity to be social.” Be mindful of certain risks according to your body’s needs/capabilities before choosing the right sport to participate in. Group sports or exercises like yoga and tai chi can help you challenge the limits of what you can do while staying motivated with a group of people, whether they’re the same age as you or a mixed age class (even better if you’re with younger people).

Get the proper nutrition

Nutrition and diet are fundamental building blocks of an aging person’s overall health, which means you have to choose the right partner to support your body so you can live your best life.

A study has shown that low food intake among the elderly lead to lower vitamins and minerals. WHO has said that “increases risky health behaviors, such as eating an unhealthy diet, drinking excessively or smoking, and reduces our quality of life” so you need partners to cater to your needs such as Anlene, the trusted expert in adult nutrition and the pioneer adult milk in the Philippines. Anlene has recently launched an “Age Has No Limit” campaign, headlined by Golden Globe Best Actress Winner (Musical/Comedy), Michelle Yeoh.

Anlene now comes in two variants: Anlene 3X and Anlene Gold 5X. Anlene 3X gives you benefits for everyday mobility, particularly for its high calcium and protein, plus Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and collagen for the joints. Anlene Gold 5X gives benefits for advanced mobility (bones, joints, muscles) and also contains the complete set of B Vitamins for energy and MFGM Active for flexibility, which can help if you want to stay active and agile. Make sure that you get proper nutrition, along with a glass of Anlene daily.

Anlene is available at your leading groceries and supermarkets as well as in Lazada and Shopee. For more details on Anlene, check out their Facebook page.