Everyone ages differently, whether it’s based on genetic or environmental factors. We can’t stop the aging process, but we can come to terms with the facts. Different elements are going to occur in every senior’s life from going gray to age spots. The question is – How can you cope with these things?

What Are the Normal Signs of Aging?

Coming to terms with the fact of aging can be easier with these 3 tips:

1. Going Gray

Getting gray is something that happens to all of us and you can either choose to embrace it or do something about it. You might ask yourself if you should dye your hair, so let’s take a look into it.

The process of hair turning gray is a simple one: 

As we get older, the pigment cells in our hair follicles gradually die. When there are fewer pigment cells in a hair follicle, that strand of hair will no longer contain as much melanin and will become a more transparent color — like gray, silver, or white — as it grows. … Eventually, the hair will look completely gray.

Opposed to popular belief, stress doesn’t lead to grey hair. Stress can lead to hair loss, which in turn the hair that grows back could be grey. Despite everything genetics is the biggest deciding factor for when hair turns grey.

Grey hair is nothing to be ashamed of, but you might decide that you want to color it. Coloring grey hair can be costly and time consuming, but those who dye their hair actually have lower blood pressure – maybe this makes them feel younger. 

2. Wrinkles & Age Spots

Wrinkles and fine lines are all a part of the aging process. A positive way to look at it is that you’ve earned those wrinkles from all the memories and laughter you’ve shared. Even if you accept your smile lines, it’s okay to want to keep your skin as youthful as possible. Don’t fall into the trap of all the sworn by eternal youth products, but talk to your dermatologist about what really works. 

The main thing to remember is that good skin comes from within, so having a good diet, hydrating, sleep, and exercise can help. Another helpful tip is using sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Overall, having a healthy and happy outlook on life will give you the appearance of looking younger.

3. Staying Clean

Seniors with good levels of hygiene can still have an odor. The distinct smell you’re thinking of is called nonenal. It’s not due to poor hygiene or bad housekeeping, but a result of the normal skin-aging process. 

Nonenal is a chemical compound that is produced when omega-7 unsaturated fatty acids on the skin are degraded through oxidation. Around age 40 in both men and women, the skin begins producing more fatty acids its natural antioxidant defenses begin to deteriorate. Hormonal changes like menopause can contribute to this chemical process as well.

These lifestyle changes can help:

• Drink lots of water.
• Wear cotton clothing so that your skin can breathe easily.
• Bathe or shower regularly.
• Moisturize after bathing or showering.
• Exfoliate your skin.
• Reduce your stress, since it can increase the production of nonenal.
• Wash your laundry on a regular basis, if possible.

By focusing on the positive aspects of aging, you can make it easier to grow older. Aging gracefully is a combination of remaining positive, open, and flexible. Growing older has its own set of rewards, so hold your head high and remain confident.

Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas

Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.
We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.