How Today’s Choices Shape Tomorrow’s Health

What a privilege it is to grow old.

And if you're one of the lucky ones, I know what you might be thinking: How can an aging body possibly be a privilege?

Because let’s be honest; aging often gets a bad rap. It’s easy to focus on the aches, the wrinkles, the slowing down, and the loss of function that comes with an aging body. Growing older is often viewed through the lens of challenges and limitations alone. I humbly acknowledge that there’s real grief that can come with physical changes and the loss of certain abilities. But even in the midst of that, I can also appreciate that there’s also something beautiful, hopeful, and deeply meaningful about growing older.

Aging is a sign that we’ve lived; that we’ve gathered memories, walked through change, and made it through things we never thought we’d survive. It means there’s still time to learn, grow, evolve, and experience life in new and even better ways. Although we cannot delay, prevent, or control the inevitable force of aging, we can change our focus and energy toward aging well by shifting our perspective and empowering ourselves to take accountability for our health today.

As an occupational therapist, I have the privilege of working with people from all walks of life to help them live more fully, no matter their age. And I’ve seen again and again that how we age often has less to do with luck and circumstances and more to do with our habits, our mindset, and the everyday choices we make. Studies have shown that adopting healthy habits (like physical activity, balanced nutrition, mental stimulation, and social engagement) can delay disability and improve quality of life as we age (Rowe and Kahn).

The truth is: we are aging every day, not just when we hit 60 or 70. That means every decision we make now (what we eat, how we move, how we rest, how we connect with others) has the ability to shape and influence what our life will look like in the years ahead (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). The decisions we make today determine the outcome of our futures, and much of what our health looks like in five, ten, or fifteen years is a direct result of the actions we are taking now.

When people think about healthy aging, they often imagine big, life-changing events. But in reality, it’s the small, consistent actions that have power to make the biggest difference. Whether it’s stretching in the morning, choosing whole foods, going for a short walk, calling a friend, or getting enough sleep, these little things add up over time.

In making these healthy choices today, think of your future self.

The one who can still carry groceries inside without assistance.

The one who can kneel down to play with her grandkids.

The one who remembers where she parked, pays bills with confidence, and still enjoys reading, puzzles, and learning something new.

Or maybe it’s your future self surrounded by community; friends who visit when you're sick, drop off a meal when you're tired, or simply sit beside you when life gets heavy. These futures are built by the choices you make today.

When it comes to living a healthy lifestyle, there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. What supports you physically, mentally, or emotionally will shift depending on the season of life you’re in. That’s why self-awareness is key. Maybe right now your focus is strength training. Maybe right now it’s slowing down and connecting with others. Maybe right now it’s finally putting your health first and scheduling that appointment you’ve been putting off.

Wherever you are, know this: aging well is not about resisting time. It’s about living intentionally with time. It’s about doing whatever you can today to take care of your body, mind, and soul now so your future self can live with dignity, independence, and joy.

Each stage of life brings its own challenges, but also its own gifts and blessings. And while we can’t control everything that comes our way, we can choose how we show up for ourselves today. The best possible way to take care of your future self is to take care of your current self.

Let’s embrace aging for what it is: a sacred opportunity. A privilege denied to many. A chance to keep growing, keep learning, and keep becoming the best version of ourselves; one small choice and step in the right direction at a time.

At IVY Integrative, you can work with one practitioner or build your own team of holistic practitioners! Reach your optimum health in-person or online. Check out our Get Started page to learn how to work with us!

Author: Dr. Katherine Lewis, OTD, OTR/L  

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Healthy Aging.” CDC, 7 June 2023, https://www.cdc.gov/aging/index.html. 

2. Rowe, John W., and Robert L. Kahn. Successful Aging. Pantheon Books, 1998.

   
   

Disclaimer:

This information is generalized and intended for educational purposes only. Due to potential individual contraindications, please see your primary care provider before implementing any strategies in these posts.