Aging is not an illness. It is a natural process, but it requires proactive care and maintenance. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate this reality, and today, I want to share some lessons that will help you navigate the challenges of aging with wisdom and preparation.
10 Years Ago vs. Today
Ten years ago, my health routine was vastly different. I didn’t have to monitor my blood pressure twice daily or avoid certain foods and beverages. Coffee and milk-based drinks were staples, but now I rely on healthier options like cinnamon tea with black tea, ginger, and honey.
Medications were not a daily necessity for me back then. Today, I take medications for managing blood pressure and prostate health, such as Dutasteride for prostatic hyperplasia. These medicines are expensive now, costing significantly more than they did just a few years ago. For instance, a medication pack that was ₦12,000 before recent political changes now costs ₦72,000.
The cost of basic healthcare has skyrocketed. Routine health checks, such as PSA tests for prostate health or comprehensive medical examinations, can cost ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 depending on the lab. These rising costs highlight the importance of planning for health-related expenses as we age.
The Silent Killers of Aging
Hypertension is a silent killer, and aging increases vulnerability to such conditions. Neglecting regular health check-ups can lead to devastating consequences. I’ve learned to prioritize my health by staying consistent with maintenance routines, including using solar energy to avoid physical strain from pulling generators or relying on erratic public power supply.
The Financial Reality of Aging
Aging doesn’t just bring physical changes; it comes with financial demands. Medication, healthcare, and lifestyle adjustments require resources. If you’re 40 or 50 now, what plans have you made for the next 10 years? Have you considered how inflation and rising costs will impact your ability to maintain your health and lifestyle?
For me, the lesson is simple: start planning early. I’ve invested in my health, solar energy, and property to ensure stability and independence as I age.
Practical Lessons for the Future
- Health: Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are non-negotiable. Aging doesn’t have to mean sickness, but it requires diligent care.
- Finances: Plan for inflation and rising costs. Save and invest wisely to cover future expenses, especially health-related ones.
- Independence: Create systems that reduce dependency on external factors, like unreliable power supply or landlords.
- Wisdom: Learn from others. Too often, we grow old too quickly and wise too late.
Join Me for an Online Seminar
To help you prepare for the future, I’m hosting a webinar on December 6th and 7th. We’ll discuss practical ways to navigate aging, finances, and planning for the next phase of life. Send a WhatsApp message to +234 802 121 9262 for details.
Remember, aging is inevitable, but how you age is a choice. Don’t wait until it’s too late to make the right moves.
Stay healthy and keep growing
