Why are we unsatisfied even with healthy longevity? What is the "decisive factor" for building a happy old age?

Tama-chan and GG Yumeta's witty talk!! [Connection/Activity]

"Tama-chan, sensitivity is the best muscle training!"

GG Yumeta:Tama-chan, sensitivity and sensuality have a rather mature ring to them, don't they? But these are "mental muscles" that elderly people, in particular, need to cherish.

Tama-chan:Mental muscles? Grandpa, what does that mean? It's kind of funny that you're suddenly saying something so philosophical (laughs).

GG Yumeta:Hahaha! Don't call it funny (laughs). But that feeling of finding something "interesting" is exactly what mental muscle is. They say that as people get older, it becomes harder to be moved by new things, right?

Tama-chan:Yeah, the grandma in our neighborhood always says things are "boring."

GG Yumeta:Exactly, right? That's a sign that her mental muscles are weakening. Brain training and walking are important for moving the body, but if the heart forgets how to be moved, you'll age rapidly. Even if your body is healthy, if your heart feels like things are "boring," you won't have the energy to get moving, right?

Tama-chan:Ah, I might get that. During exam season, when I feel like nothing matters anymore and I can't get out of bed?

GG Yumeta:Exactly! The ultimate version of that is "mental aging" in the elderly. That's why we seniors have to consciously train by using our "five senses."

Tama-chan:Five senses? You mean seeing, hearing, tasting, touching, and smelling?

GG Yumeta:That's right! For example, feeling that a small flower blooming on the side of the road is "beautiful," listening closely to the chirping of birds while walking, or slowly savoring a delicious snack... catching those little "moments of wonder" is the best muscle training to keep your heart young.

Tama-chan:Hmm. So, when you're always saying the flowers in the garden are "cute," that was muscle training!

GG Yumeta:That's right, Tama-chan! Actually, that's my own way of anti-aging (laughs). Plus, I keep challenging myself with new things. The reason I've become able to master my smartphone is because I'm always looking for new stimulation.

Tama-chan:So, the reason you've been watching those trendy short videos lately is to keep your heart young? I was wondering what that was about, but if that's the reason, I'll let it slide.

GG Yumeta:Good, good, you're a smart girl, Tama-chan. And one last thing: chatting happily with people. Being able to banter with you like this is the best mental nourishment for me. Thank you.

Tama-chan:GG... come on, that's embarrassing. But since you being healthy is the most important thing, I'll keep chatting with you a lot!

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[Details] The secret to a "happy long life" for the elderly

Many experts point out that what is missing for those who cannot feel happy despite a long, healthy life is**"ikigai" (a reason for living) or a "purpose."**.

Brain training and walking to maintain health are important, but they are merely means to an end. If your only goal is "to live a long, healthy life," you may find yourself at a loss for how to spend your "second life" once you actually achieve that longevity, leading to feelings of boredom or emptiness.

To make the latter half of your life fulfilling, the following can serve as an "ikigai."

• Hobbies and learning: Trying new things or resuming old hobbies can make every day enjoyable.

• Connection with society: Participating in volunteer activities or taking on a role in your local community can give you a sense of being useful to others.

• Human relationships: Deepening interactions with friends and family creates emotional support.

Being healthy is wonderful, but having a purpose—knowing "what you are living for"—is the key to a happy, long life.

The point about the decline not only of physical functions due to aging but also of mental functions such as sensitivity and sensuality is also considered important in the latest research. The body and mind are closely linked, and it has become clear that mental health significantly affects the maintenance of physical function, especially in old age.

Latest findings: The connection between mind and body

• "Masked depression": Depression in the elderly often manifests as physical symptoms such as headaches, lower back pain, and fatigue rather than a depressed mood, and is called "masked depression." In some cases, physical ailments are actually an SOS from the mind.

• Physical activity and mental health: A decline in physical activity increases the risk of depression and anxiety. Conversely, moderate exercise has a significant effect on stabilizing mood and is extremely important for maintaining mental health.

• Sarcopenia and nerve function: It is known that the loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) is not just about muscle weakness, but is also related to the aging of nerve functions, such as dysfunction of the neuromuscular junction.

Measures to prevent the aging of sensitivity, sensuality, and the mind

Here are some concrete measures to prevent your own "mental aging" and support your body from a mental perspective.

1. Consciously using the five senses:

   • Seeing: View beautiful scenery, paintings, or photographs to evoke emotional inspiration.

   • Hearing: Listen to your favorite music or pay attention to the sounds of nature.

   • Tasting: Savor your meals slowly and enjoy the aromas while you eat.

   • Touching: Touch things that feel pleasant, such as flowers, greenery, or animals.

   • Smelling: Consciously incorporate scents, such as seasonal flowers or aroma oils.

2. New experiences and learning:

   • Starting a new hobby, traveling to a place you have never been, or beginning to study a new field provides fresh stimulation to the brain, which activates the frontal lobe.

   • Having a spirit of challenge to "try it first," even for small things, is the key to maintaining mental motivation.

3. Connection with society:

   • By having a social role, such as participating in volunteer activities or local gatherings, you can prevent loneliness and gain a sense of purpose and self-esteem.

   • Having friends or peers with whom you can easily discuss your worries and anxieties is also essential for mental health.

4. A "self-first" mindset:

   • It is important not to view restraint or endurance as virtues, but to prioritize your own "happiness" and "things you want to do" at times.

5. Quality sleep and rest:

   • Although sleep tends to become shorter and lighter with age, high-quality sleep is directly linked to mental health.

   • Make sure to get enough rest and create time to relax your mind and body.

Listening to the voice of your own body and mind, and actively incorporating joy and stimulation into your daily life, can be said to be the secret to maintaining both physical and mental health and living a rich old age.