Healthy aging - can we do this better?

[DoNotWorryBeHappy]

What changes to lifestyle might you consider to help you approach aging? I now look at my DM 81, and can see the impact some of her attitudes and lifestyle choices have had on her. I'm determined now to tweak my habits and choices - what would you suggest to fellow Mumsnetters to improve well-being? From decluttering and daily walk to occasional fasting and developing social contacts - how might we help ourselves improve our prospects?

Look after your gums. Periodontal disease can cause heart disease, arthritis and dementia if left untreated. It's surprisingly common. If your gums bleed, get it checked. That's the only symptom I had.

Brilliant! Starting when cleaning my teeth too!

@DisforDarkChocolate I got an indo board years ago whenIwantedtobeasurfergirl and I still use it with the cushion and roller. They are designed for improving your balance for board sports. They seem to be quite expensive now but there are a lot of similarly designed boards on the market for less. It depends where you're at, the wobble boards/ cushions that just make you adjust to keep your balance will still be a challenge initially if your core strength isn't there. Some seem designed specifically for eg weak ankles or using at a standing desk and there are lots of physio recommended balance boards for strengthening after injury. I bought a wooden rocker board for my dc as well. The indo board style ones are amazing fun when you're confident enough to play on the roller. Using the board with the cushion is good for building up all the little muscles that need to work to keep you stable and you can do it when you're watching TV bestnotafteraglassofwinethough.

Such a brilliant list. Another thing I've realised from watching my parents - don't move to the middle of nowhere just as you are getting old and frail. Much easier to be in easy reach of shops, doctors and community services in a small town or large village. Ideally you won't need to keep driving into your 80s either (fine for some, not got others).

Brisk walking every day.
At least 50% of your diet raw fruit and veg.
Drinks lots of water.
Keep your mind active.

However, I once asked a 92 year old what her secret was. "Always look carefully before you cross the road. "