On a summer trip to Osaka, Japan, valuable time was spent with a 95-year-old grandfather, who formerly practiced cardiology.
His life, marked by a creative and community-focused approach, is a testament to aging well.
His eight non-negotiables for a meaningful and extended life are:
Dawn Walk Ritual
The grandparents greet the day early, setting out for a walk as early as 5 a.m. They typically walk for half an hour to an hour, clocking in at least 7,000 steps.
Their walks, whether on hilly terrains near Minoh Falls or around the Ikeda locality, fortify their mornings.
Targeted Fitness Routine
Following their morning walk, he dedicates time to a personalized exercise routine.
This includes stretching exercises and a mix of strength and balance training, strategically varied each day to match his fitness level and prevent overexertion.
Online Socializing
After exercising, he turns to social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to stay connected with his extended family and friends.
This practice is crucial for him, offsetting the loneliness often experienced by older adults due to social isolation.