-
Independence
For most, the first time living away from home means that more effort is required to balance school or work with healthy habits. One must be more conscious of the decisions they make. -
Period: to
20's
Common issues in this decade include prevention of long term problems, substance usage, healthy living, and transition to independence. The focus is on eating lots of healthy food which is also convenient, such as pasta and rotisserie chicken. Physical activity involves staying in good shape through high energy workouts. Preventative care involves avoiding substances and overexposure to sun. -
Substance Abuse
Many people during this time have their first extensive access to substances such as alcohol and drugs. Making sure that you do not take too much, if any, of these substances protects you from the danger. -
Skin Protection
A popular past time in this age is sunbathing. Avoid tanning salons and use protective sunscreen. The key to preventing long term skin disease is protecting yourself from the sun in this stage. -
Chronic Disease Prevention
The key to having a healthy future begins in your 20's. Eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising will all lead to long term benefits in health. -
Career Balance
With the increasing burden of providing for a family, you will inevitably feel overwhelmed. Practicing healthy habits and separating work life and home life will help make your stress more managable. -
Period: to
30's
Common issues in this decade include career/family balance, stress management, sexual health issues, and mental and emotional problems. Eat lots of vegetables high in iron and folate. Work out in cardio and light strength. Preventative health care involves managing stress and blood pressure/blood sugar levels. -
Raising a Family
Having kids is always very stressful. Make sure that you are prepared for parenthood as much as possible, and practice being a positive influence. -
Sexual Health
STD's and other sexual health problems are very prominent during this time period. Always check to see if your partner has any STD's before sex. Consult a doctor regularly. -
Mental Health
The stress of work and raising a family can mental health issues in your 30's. To combat this, practice stress management techniques that work for you. In addition, living a healthy life can ease some of the problems. -
Chronic Diseases
Chronic diseases such as cancer, high blood pressure, etc. become noticeable at this age. Consult with a doctor regularly to conduct screenings on the presence of chronic diseases, which can be very beneficial in the long term. -
Period: to
40's
Common issues in this decade include chronic health problems such as diabetes and heart disease, and sexual dysfunction. Eat less calories and more fiber, vitamin D, and calcium. Exercise involves more walking and slower paced workouts, with some upper body exercises to maintain muscle mass. Preventative health care includes avoiding dangerous situations and moderating consumption. -
Sexual Dysfunction
Men in their 40's may experience symptoms of testosterone deficiency, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or transient
erectile dysfunction. Many women in their 40's begin experiencing
symptoms of menopause (e.g., hot flashes, irritability). Talk to a doctor about these issues. -
Vision and Hearing Loss
Changes in vision and hearing loss are also relatively common problems for people in their 40's. You may find that you need glasses for the first time in your life. There is no way to truly stop this, so adjusting to your physical capabilities is the most important step towards remaining healthy. -
Family Health History
As you get older, knowing which diseases are more likely to come can improve your chances at preventing them. Consulting with a doctor on your family health history can help improve your odds of surviving them. -
Mental and Physical Decline
To combat the effects of mental and physical decline, it is important to exercise, eat healthy, and stimulate the mind. This can be through puzzles, reading, and other activities. Maintaining the mental activity can slow down the mind's decreasing abilities. -
Period: to
50's
Common issues in this decade include shifting roles, loss of physical and mental function, and chronic health issues. Eat foods which fight cholesterol and heart disease, such as beans, oats, and apples. Exercise includes mostly walking and stretching, and things such as tai chi and yoga. Preventative health care includes preparing for retirement, managing weight loss, and regularly consulting with a doctor. -
Changing Familial Roles
In your 50's, with kids going to college and parents in old age, your role will be significantly altered. Finding more social activities and people to talk to, as well as satisfaction in your tasks, can help combat the stress and depression which can sometimes occur. -
Chronic Health Issues
Continuing to deal with health issues can be very frustrating. The key to preventing these issues from taking over your life is to regularly consult with doctors, and maintain a healthy and optimistic lifestyle. -
Financial Dependence
Being financially dependent on others can have a large impact on your mental health. Being able to have open and honest conversations about your state of mind will help with this. -
Period: to
60's
Common issues in this decade include declining physical and mental health, financial issues with retirement, and dependence on others. Eat healthy foods such as vegetables and fruits which are high in fiber. Exercise includes walking and stretching, slow things which don't over exert. Preventative health care includes talking to a doctor and doing screenings, being safe, and taking regular medication if needed. -
Moderation
With your age, moderation in all consumption is necessary to survive. Don't eat, drink, or exert yourself too much. Have a regular routine during the day. -
Safety
Always wear a seat belt with lap/shoulder straps whenever you're in a car.Make sure you have a smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home and in every bedroom. Set the water heater in your home no higher than 120-130°F. -
Retirement
With retirement, you will have much more free time. Be sure to participate in social activities and find hobbies that you find fulfilling. This will keep you our of lethargy and depression.
