Resilience in older age: How to cultivate mental strength

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

However, resilience is a concept relevant at all stages of life.

In older age, resilience becomes particularly important as older adults face a variety of changes and challenges that aging brings. These include health problems, the loss of loved ones, and adjusting to retirement.

How can resilience be developed in older age?

1. Acceptance: The first step in developing resilience in older age is accepting the changes that come with getting older. This means acknowledging reality and not resisting it.
2. Flexibility: Flexible mindsets and behaviors help in adapting to new situations and finding solutions to problems. It is important to be open to change and find new ways to address challenges.
3. Social support: A strong social network is crucial for resilience in older 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 manage stress and employ healthy coping mechanisms is an essential component of resilience in older 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 strengthen resilience in older age. Focusing on the positive aspects of life and finding gratitude for what one has can help maintain a positive mental outlook.

How can dietary supplements support resilience?

Dietary supplements can contribute to building resilience in older age by providing the body with essential nutrients required for optimal mental and physical health.

1. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil supplements have anti-inflammatory properties and can contribute to brain health, thereby strengthening mental resilience.
2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is common among older adults and can negatively impact mood and cognitive functions. Taking Vitamin D supplements can help offset the deficiency and support overall health.
3. B-Vitamins: B-Vitamins are important for energy production and nervous system function. Adequate intake of B-Vitamins can help maintain mental sharpness and energy in older age. NADH is also a form of Vitamin B—specifically the biologically active form of Vitamin B3. Vitamin B3 is thus essential for the production of NADH in the body.
4. Antioxidants: Antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E can help protect the body from oxidative stress and support cell health. This can help prevent age-related diseases and maintain overall health. NADH also acts as a potent antioxidant in the body. It helps neutralize free radicals by acting as an electron donor. By reducing these free radicals, NADH contributes to protecting cells and maintaining cellular function.

Conclusion

Resilience in older age is an important quality that helps older adults cope with the challenges of aging and lead fulfilling lives. 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 challenging times.

Dietary supplements can support this by providing the body with essential nutrients that are helpful for optimal health in older age. In this context, B-Vitamins and NADH play an important role as they protect cells from oxidative stress while supporting 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 - der biologische Wasserstoff das Geheimnis unserer Lebensenergie, 2015