Is Your Biological Age Younger Than You Are?
Do you look in the mirror every day, startled at the wrinkled image looking back at you? This may just be an indication that you feel much younger, healthier, and more energetic than your age indicates. The years sneak up on us, but health problems don't have to. Here are 20 signs that you're actually thriving in your advanced years more than you may realize.
1. You Bounce Back Quickly From Emotional Setbacks
One thing about aging that no one prepares you for is all the heavy emotional experiences you're bound to go through. You will lose loved ones, live through difficult periods, and experience many forms of heartbreak, but you won't let these things break you because you recognize the importance of joy.
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2. Your Mind Is Curious & Sharp
It's normal for your memory to decline somewhat as you grow older, but if you're able to stay sharp, it's a powerful thing. People who remain curious and engage in continuous learning show significantly less brain aging.
3. You Enjoy Moving
Moving without pain is a sign that your body is aging well. It signals strong muscles, bones, and inflammation that's kept in check. Enjoying movement also means you'll do it more, making it easier to maintain a healthy body.
4. You Have Strong Muscles
Having strong muscles doesn't necessarily mean being buff. If you're able to rise from your chair without using your arms or carry groceries effortlessly, that's a win. Strong muscles indicate easier movement and less risk of suffering from age-related loss of muscle mass and function.
5. Your Weight Has Remained Steady
Many people experience dramatic weight fluctuations as they grow older, but this is a sign of hormone imbalance or unsustainable lifestyle choices, and can make you age faster. If your weight remains steady, it indicates your metabolism is still working as it should.
6. You Don't Get Stressed Easily
Stress causes a whole slew of health problems, including ruining your sleep and contributing to inflammation. Staying optimistic and resilient in the face of stressors contributes to healthy aging even more than genetics.
7. Your Body Heals Quickly
If minor injuries like cuts and bruises heal quickly, it's a sign that your body functions are working well. It signals a healthy immune system and great cellular repair, which have been linked to a lower risk of age-related diseases.
8. Your Biomarkers Remain Balanced
If doctors are commonly impressed by your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, it means that your organs are in exceptionally good shape. Healthy biomarkers generally translate to slower aging.
9. You Sleep Well
It's extremely common for sleep quality to suffer as you age, so if you still get 7 to 9 hours of shut-eye, it's like a superpower. Your brain ages more slowly, your immune system maintains better function, and you stave off age-related decline.
10. You Wake Up Refreshed
Even if you're getting less than 7 hours of sleep, the key is quality. If you wake up feeling refreshed and energized, it's a sign that you're well-rested and in a good mental place, ready to seize the day.
11. You Aren't On A Lot Of Meds
If you don't have to rely on medication to maintain your health, it's an excellent sign. It signals that your body is naturally strong and healthy and indicates a slower biological aging process.
12. You Have Healthy Boundaries
Aging well isn't all about physical health. Having healthy boundaries is an indication of wisdom and emotional maturity. If you know how to say "no" without guilt, it means you can spend your energy on the relationships that matter more.
13. You're Still Willing To Try New Things
Trying new things is an indication that you're still curious. Whether it's a dance class or a new recipe, openness indicates a flexible, youthful mind and an excitement about the future.
14. You Have Meaningful Relationships
Maintaining close friendships and having regular, meaningful social contact actively slows aging. It's actually the strongest predictor of long-term health and has been linked to lower rates of dementia.
15. You Still Have A Sense of Humor
Keeping a lighthearted attitude through all of what life has thrown your way is an indication that you're optimistic. Laughing at yourself is a powerful way to stay joyful and youthful.
16. You Still Have Goals
If you still have plans for the future, you're not just living for today; you're living for tomorrow. A lot of longevity is mindset, and having goals indicates vitality and a desire to move forward.
17. You Notice & Enjoy Small Joys
Gratitude keeps you young and positive. A good book, a warm, sunny spot, a quiet morning, the sound of the birds: these are the things that make life enjoyable.
18. You Look Younger Than You Are
Skin that maintains elasticity and thick, healthy hair isn't just cosmetic. External markers often signal that your organs are working properly and you are giving your body the nutrition it needs.
19. You Still Enjoy Eating
If you still enjoy eating and have a consistent appetite, it indicates that your digestive system is working properly. It signals a healthy gut, which is linked to a whole slew of body functions, even in the brain.
20. You Have Plenty of Energy Throughout The Day
Feeling vibrant and energetic from morning all the way through to night indicates healthy fitness levels and excellent cellular function. It also suggests proper nutrition and signals that your body produces energy like someone much younger.
