8 Things Men Need to Know About Aging
Aging is inevitable if we’re lucky, but how you age is something that you can influence. For men, growing older brings a lot of change, and some of those changes are unexpected and others are not as surprising.
From energy level shifts to needing more frequent checkups with doctors. It’s essential to understand what lies ahead and how to prepare for it. If you’re concerned about your health as you get older, let’s take a look at 8 important things that every man should know about aging.
- Your sexual health will change. As testosterone levels decline naturally with age, sexual performance and libido can and will be affected. Many men find themselves dealing with erectile dysfunction in their 40s, fifties, and beyond. While it can be frustrating, it’s also very common. And the good news is that erectile dysfunction treatment options have advanced with effective, safe solutions that range from oral medications to lifestyle changes. If you’re experiencing any changes in your sexual health, don’t ignore them. Talk to your doctor.
- Muscle mass declines. After age 30, men lose around three 5% of their muscle mass per decade. This is a process called sarcopenia and it can be slowed significantly with resistance training and adequate protein intake. Staying active is one of the best ways that you can maintain mobility, strength, and independence. You don’t necessarily have to become a bodybuilder, but with consistent workouts with weight, body weight exercises, and resistance bands, you’ll be able to make a difference to your health.
- Your heart may need more attention. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men over 50. Aging can stiffen the blood vessels and lead to higher blood pressure. This means your diet, cholesterol and cardiovascular health become more important than ever before. Regular screenings, a diet rich in Whole Foods and quitting smoking is going to help. With regular aerobic activity like walking, biking or swimming, this will help to go a long way towards maintaining a strong and healthy heart.
- Your mental health may shift. Ageing isn’t something that just affects your body, but it can impact your emotions and your brain too. Some men experience anxiety, depression or a feeling of purposelessness as they enter retirement or become empty nesters. Others start to worry about cognitive decline or memory issues. By staying socially connected, mentally active, and seeking professional support, you can end up protecting your mental well-being better than ever. Don’t underestimate the value of good mental health care.
- Preventative health becomes crucial. In your younger years, you may have skipped annual physicals without any consequence, but that’s not something you should be doing now. Preventative care becomes non-negotiable as you get older. With regular screenings on the table for prostate cancer, colon cancer, and heart health, you’ll be able to catch problems early when they’re at their most treatable. Likewise, managing conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure require consistent attention. Make sure that you find a doctor that you trust to keep up with your recommended health schedule.
- Your sleep pattern could change. It’s common for older men to notice changes in their sleep. There are fewer hours of deep sleep and more waking during the night or even earlier wake times. While it might seem like a minor change, sleep has a huge impact on everything else, from your energy levels to your mood to your immune function. With poor sleep, you’ll also make existing health problems worse. Aim for a consistent bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed and limit alcohol and caffeine in the evening.
- You may feel an identity shift. Many men define themselves by their careers or their physical prowess, but that changes as retirement approaches. It’s very easy to feel like you’re losing part of who you are, but aging offers powerful opportunities to redefine your success and fulfillment. With hobbies, volunteering, mentoring, or spending time with family, you’ll be able to bring deeper meaning and satisfaction to your life. The most fulfilled older men can find new passions that give them purpose.
- Aging is not something you have to do alone. Whether you’re dealing with health challenges, lifestyle changes, or the emotional ups and downs that come with aging, support systems are essential. That could mean your partner, your close friends, your doctor, your therapist, or even a fitness coach. Surround yourself with people who encourage healthy habits and are willing to have honest conversations about ageing. Don’t shy away from asking for help when you need it, because strength comes from knowing when to reach out.
Aging doesn’t mean having to give up on vitality or joy. Many men find their later years to be some of the most rewarding they have ever had.