The aging process is complex and impacts people's health, bodies, and minds in different ways over time. While aging stereotypes are common, taking a positive approach to aging and embracing changes can help people live longer, healthier lives. It is important for seniors to remain active and engaged through accessible leisure activities and services tailored to their varying abilities.

1. By Tana DarnellMay 17th, 2010TRMT 392The Aging Process

2. AbstractThe aging process is one in which we all experience. There is a strong power in the way one chooses to embrace this very personal journey, as our minds, bodies, and spirits mature and change with time. While the study of aging has only been around for three quarters of a century, people have been aging since the existence of people, thus it is a complex process with not a whole lot of knowledge surrounding it. In part this directly relates to the frequently heard stereotypes of the aging population.

3. Things that change with ageHealth-Inevitably our health changes over time, both individual cells and organ systems are effected. This does not mean there is no reason to take care of ones body. It is important to make healthy choices for ones body and mind to help sustain quality living.Body-It is important to keep an active routine in place for people of all ages to unsure good health. As some people may find it harder to perform activities, it is important to cater an activity or exercise to you. Find what works: everybody is different, embrace that!Mind-Our minds change and often mature over time. It is forever important to keep a healthy, positive perspective on life, as this directly impacts the quality of ones life.

4. Senior FactsBritish Columbia is one of the four most popular provinces for seniors to reside inWomen form the majority of the senior populationThe bulk of seniors are married, approximately one third are widowedAlthough based on gender and race, people are living longer than ever beforeAboriginal people have a lower life expectancy than the Canadian average

5. Senior HealthHeart disease and cancer are the leading causes for death in seniors (with a much higher rate in senior males)Heart disease has declined over the years, although cancer and respiratory diseases increased during the same timeThis chart illustrates death rates and causes during past years

6. Misconceptions In order to combat the circulating stereotypes, it is important to bring awareness to the subject. It is important to stay positive. Aging should be looked at as an exciting and dynamic journey, not the destination of old.

7. Senior LeisureWith a positive approach to the aging journey, more accessible leisure services can be provided for the growing senior populationService providers need not discriminate, rather embrace and cater to differences. No two people function the same, regardless of ageAs we approach older age, we do not shrivel up and become useless. Stimulation and activity is still needed in order to maintain good health.Programs need to provide obtainable activities, and in return seniors need to be open to the experience of aging

8. In ConclusionThose with a more positive outlook and self-perception on aging live a longer healthier life. Break the cycle and be open minded to the changes that lie ahead: welcomethem. One must openly adapt to their circumstances in order to embrace them. Despite all the frequently heard stereotypes with aging, remain positive. Look at aging as an amazing journey, a gift, one in which makes you wiser. Life is not about reaching a destination, so slow down and enjoy the journey.

9. ReferencesHuman resources sand skills development canada. (n.d.). Health — Mortality from Leading Diseases. In Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Retrieved May 15, 2010, from http://www4.hrsdc.gc.ca/.3ndic.1t.4r@-eng.jsp?iid=5McGuire, F. A., Boyd, R. K., & Tedrick, R. E. (2009). Leisure and aging. Ulyssean living in later life (4th ed.). Champaign, IL: Sagamore Publishing.The AGS Foundation. (2005, February 28). Your Gateway to Health and Aging. In Aging in the Know. Retrieved May 10, 2010, from http://www.healthinaging.org/agingintheknow/ chapters_ch_trial.asp?ch=1#Genetic and Environmental Factors