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There is an aging process, and we may not be able to do what we did when we were 20, but we can start at an early age to make choices that support us as we get older.

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I’m 69 now and love having an active sex life. When I reach 90 I want to still enjoy making love.

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Thanks, Janice. The same applies to longevity, sustaining myself as a caregiver. Loving compassion for myself and for Mum's sake. Dad had his first heart attack when I was a teenager and a quintuple heart bypass (5-way) a little while later, so I feel exactly what you've shared here.

Always love your lighter notes...but this sheep made me giggle ;-) 'Sticking my tongue out in reply - just 'cos!' ;-)

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Well said! I once interviewed a Family Practice doctor who told me there are very few health conditions that cant be cured or at least made better with exercise. Moving is KEY. And diet of course...good thing I love vegetables! 😂 Great advice. Dont wait....start now!

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Good advice! We are early 60s and lost too many years, but are working hard on all of this now, so there's still hope. Fortunately, both our boys and their wives are doing a better job of all of this than we did. Thanks, Janice!

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You're saving my life here, Janice, with these reminders. Thank you

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The funny thing is we all know this and still very few do it…even though there is a widespread awareness thanks to social media and a large amount of motivational and accountability groups online…what else do people need to live a healthy life?

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I studied 'Outlive' at great length. I zeroed in on health span vs life span. The one thing that bothers me about aging gracefully is that it costs a fortune to do so. Supplements, nutritious healthy food, and staying on top of medical issues are the frosting on the cake, in addition to the four basic components you mentioned. But necessary for the long run if we can afford to do the additional few things needed to keep our bodies running at optimal performance. He comes from a middle-aged perspective. I can't wait to see how he handles the usual aging symptoms such as arthritis, pesky aches and pains, and the body slowing down. We can fight hard but at the end of the day the inevitable comes about, we just have to hope our disciplined preparation softens the blows.

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This is the best suggestion ever. Start now!

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Thank you for supporting caregivers, Janice. I became a full-time caregiver to my partner nearly two years ago, and Charcot Marie Tooth disease does not help me. He is bedbound, type 2 diabetes, and has one and a half legs. We are working to get him into a wheelchair, but after over a year in bed, his core strength has depleted. I safeguard my self-care so I can continue to look after him. Rest/sleep is vital. Eating well is non-negotiable. I get plenty of exercise moving him about and working with the carers. I have occasional rage days and a few online friends I can speak with when I need uplifting and to clear the air. I so appreciate your article as it will help so many others who are caregiving, too. All my best!

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