By Dada Ahmed.
Photo credit:, Weekender Magazine.
A senior citizen is generally an older adult, typically someone who is 60 or 65 years of age or older. This term is often used to refer to people who are in the later stages of life and may be retired or nearing retirement.
The exact age can vary depending on the country or context, but senior citizens are often eligible for certain benefits, such as pensions, social security, and senior discounts. This is an explanation offered by Ghat GPT,an model language Al.
What, then, is the relationship between age, health benefits and the concept of a senior citizen?
When considered from a philosophical perspective, it is fitting to agree with gerontologist that as people enter senior years, aging should be viewed not as a decline but an opportunity for reflection, growth, and the celebration of life’s journey.
Health experts describe a gerontologist as a professional who studies the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging.
He or she does this by specializing in understanding the challenges and needs of older adults, as well as promoting strategies to improve their quality of life among other functions.
This philosophical dictum finds relevance in the belief that, senior citizens, having lived through the ebbs and flows of life, possess a unique wisdom that comes with age, and that embracing this stage of life with gratitude can greatly enhance both physical and mental well-being.
One of the most accessible and beneficial ways to maintain health during these years is light physical exercise, particularly walking, according to health experts.
Experience shows that walking provides a simple yet powerful means of staying active, and its benefits for senior citizens are vast.
Medical professionals maintain that, regular walking helps maintain cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and improving circulation, which is crucial in preventing age-related conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure .They add that it aids in weight management, reducing the risk of obesity, which can exacerbate other health issues.
Furthermore, walking enhances bone health by improving bone density and joint flexibility, helping to prevent osteoporosis and arthritis—common concerns for older adults.
One of the most important benefits of walking for seniors is its ability to improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls, which are among the leading causes of injury in older individuals.
Beyond physical health, walking offers profound mental and emotional benefits. It has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, making it an excellent tool for maintaining brain health, according to health professionals.
They did not end the efficacy of this class of physical exercise, pointing out it also stimulates the release of endorphins, natural mood boosters that help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, which are often experienced in senior years due to isolation or health concerns.
Socially, walking has proved to be an exercise that can provide opportunities for connection, whether it is with friends, neighbors, or community groups, helping to combat loneliness and fostering a sense of belonging.
In essence, experts say walking is a holistic exercise that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit.
Therefore,for senior citizens, walking is not just a way to stay fit; it is a path to enhancing overall well-being and prolonging a vibrant, active life.
It is believed beyond health line that the simple act of walking is a testament to the resilience of the human body and a celebration of the richness that each day brings in the later years of life.
Ahmed publishes The Reporters.
