Resilience in old age: how to cultivate strength of mind

When we talk about resilience, we often think of the ability to overcome difficulties and emerge stronger from challenges.

However, resilience is a concept that is relevant in all phases of life.

Resilience becomes particularly important in old age, as older people are confronted with a variety of changes and challenges that come with getting older. These include health problems, the loss of loved ones and adapting to retirement.

How can you develop resilience in old age?

1. Acceptance: The first step towards developing resilience in old age is accepting the changes that come with ageing. This means acknowledging reality and not resisting it.
2. Flexibility: Flexible thinking and behavior help to adapt to new situations and find solutions to problems. It is important to be open to change and find new ways of dealing with challenges.
3. Social support: A strong social network is crucial for resilience in old age. Family, friends and communities can play an important role in providing support, comfort and advice during difficult times.
4. Healthy coping strategies: The ability to deal with stress and use healthy coping mechanisms is an essential part of resilience in old age. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, sufficient sleep and maintaining hobbies and interests.
5. Positive thinking: An optimistic attitude and the ability to see the good even in difficult times can help to strengthen resilience in old age. Focusing on the positive aspects of life and finding gratitude for what you have can help maintain a positive mental attitude.

How can nutritional supplements support resilience?

Dietary supplements can help to strengthen resilience in old age by providing the body with important nutrients that are necessary for optimal mental and physical health. These can be particularly beneficial, for example:

1. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish oil supplements, have anti-inflammatory properties and can contribute to brain health, which in turn can boost mental resilience.
2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is common in older people and can have a negative impact on mood and cognitive function. Taking vitamin D supplements can help to compensate for the deficiency and support general health.
3. B vitamins: B vitamins are important for energy production and nervous system function. An adequate supply of B vitamins can help to maintain mental acuity and energy in old age. NADH is also a form of vitamin B - more precisely, the biologically active form of vitamin B3. Vitamin B3 is therefore essential for the production of NADH in the body.
4. Antioxidants: Antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E can help protect the body from oxidative stress and support cellular health. This can help prevent age-related diseases and maintain overall health. NADH also acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body. It helps to neutralize free radicals by acting as an electron donor. By reducing these free radicals, NADH helps to protect cells and maintain cell function.

Conclusion

Resilience in old age is an important quality that helps older people deal with the challenges of ageing and lead a fulfilling life. Through acceptance, flexibility, social support, healthy coping strategies and positive thinking, older people can strengthen their mental resilience and maintain a sense of hope and contentment even in difficult times.

Dietary supplements can support this by providing the body with important nutrients that are helpful for optimal health in old age. In this context, B vitamins and NADH play an important role as they protect cells from oxidative stress and at the same time support energy production in the body.

Sources:

1. Resilience in Aging: Literature Review
   (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6523810/)
2. Resilience in Older Adults: A Concept Analysis
   (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25069495/)
3. The Role of Nutritional Supplements in Maintaining Health in Older Adults
   (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15769967/)
4. What is Resilience?
   (https://www.apa.org/topics/resilience)
5. Prof. Dr. Dr. Birkmayer George D.: NADH - biological hydrogen the secret of our life energy, 2015