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What’s the first thing to go as you age?

Aging can be a life-affirming, positive process that allows us to be our true selves and make remarkable self-discoveries. But it is also a time when we will start to notice changes that slow us down, interrupt our days, or make us feel less confident. So, as we consider the aging process, what’s the first thing to “go”?

The answer, as it turns out, isn’t a simple one. That’s because everyone ages differently, at a different pace and in different ways. The types of age-related changes that one person notices first may be delayed in another person – and vice versa. But, generally speaking, we can all expect to undergo a few common changes as we age.

Declining eyesight. Starting in our 40s, our eye muscles lose the ability to focus at close distances, making the use of reading glasses an eventuality for most of us as we age. On top of that, most people will also get cataracts in advanced age. Fortunately, there are corrective options for both of these conditions.

Hearing loss. Even from childhood, we all start losing a little bit of hearing over time. By the time we are in our 50s, usually, the loss may be significant enough to be noticeable. Further into old age, the loss may be significant enough to warrant the use of hearing aids.

Reduction in muscle mass. As we age, we lose muscle mass and must exercise even harder to preserve our muscle strength. The decrease in muscle mass often means an increase in body fat, as well. Fortunately, residents of Brazos Towers can enjoy numerous opportunities for exercise, including our exercise classes, swimming pool, and fitness room. There is also a full-service therapy suite offering opportunities for ongoing physical therapy with licensed therapists. These amenities allow residents to work to rebuild and preserve muscle as well as cardiovascular health.

Age-related memory loss. We can all expect to forget things, even in our youth. But as we age, it seems it happens more and more. But not to worry – the occasional memory lapse is a normal part of growing older. But keeping socially active and mentally stimulated can help you keep your mind and memory sharp. With numerous social opportunities and activity clubs, our senior population have ample opportunity to keep their minds in top shape.

Bone and joint changes. As we age, our bones thin and our joints deteriorate. By ensuring seniors are getting adequate nutrition, following physician’s treatment plans, and exercising, we do have the power to slow age-related bone changes. Brazos Towers residents enjoy highly nutritious meal choices from a menu designed by our onsite dieticians and nutritionists, so even folks with special dietary needs have delicious choices. And everyone, regardless of activity level, has access to physical fitness equipment that helps them care for themselves in the best way possible.

Skin aging. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more delicate, making us more susceptible to skin tears and bruising. This is normal with the aging process, but there are topical products that can be used to build skin’s resiliency. And, of course as we age, we start to see those fine lines appear – and then the not-so-fine lines. At our retirement community, we see those lines not just as signs of aging, but as testaments of lives well lived. They are the hard-earned result of diligent work, adventures, and lots of smiles. That’s why we like to call it not retirement, but Re-inspirement!