In a doctor’s waiting room, three individuals over the age of 70 found themselves discussing their experiences with aquagym. Despite being of the same generation, their physical capabilities differed significantly – one rose easily, although the other struggled to stand. This disparity raises a key question: what truly accounts for these differences in how people age?
Those who have passed the age of 70 often observe a pattern: some appear to maintain a vitality that seems a decade younger, while others experience a more rapid decline. Physicians point to factors like mobility, the risk of falls and changes in skin health. Yet, many individuals attribute their well-being to a consistent morning routine that they never skip.
Morning Routine After 70: Revealing the Body’s Fragilities
The skin’s renewal process slows with age. In their twenties, the skin renews approximately every 28 days, but this cycle lengthens over time. Production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid decreases, and the sebaceous glands produce less sebum. This results in thinner skin, a compromised skin barrier, and a feeling of tightness upon waking, especially in colder weather or after a poor night’s sleep.
These vulnerabilities become immediately apparent in the morning: stiffness in the knees, reduced balance, and shortness of breath with even minor exertion. Programs like ICOPE, supported by the World Health Organization, emphasize that maintaining mobility and preventing falls are central to healthy aging after 70.
The Daily Habit Shared by Those Who Age Well
A senior’s observation, shared by Geediting, encapsulates the key difference: “People who age well treat morning movement as something as essential as brushing their teeth. Not necessarily exercise, but movement.” The goal isn’t to break records, but to avoid remaining immobile first thing in the morning.
A 78-year-old woman who still tends to her garden shared, “If I skip it, my whole day is thrown off. It’s like trying to drive with the parking brake on.” She describes her ten minutes of stretching immediately after getting out of bed. This morning movement acts as a lubricant for the joints, improves balance, and reduces the risk of falls throughout the day. Maintaining balance and preventing falls are crucial for seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life.
Incorporating Movement into Your Morning Routine After 70
Those who successfully establish this habit rely on systems, rather than motivation. They place a mat near the bed and keep walking shoes readily available. Even with pain, everyone can find a suitable approach: rolling their ankles in bed, stretching while seated, or walking for five minutes down the hallway or to the mailbox.
This successful approach also avoids harshness. Dermatologist Charlotte Daubet advises, “We stop using scrubs that become too abrasive, given the thinness of our epidermis,” as reported by the Journal des Femmes. As noted by Astuces de Grand-Mère, “Drinking enough water throughout the day remains the most fundamental gesture,” complemented by consistent sleep.
