Why slowing down in retirement might actually harm your brain health
For decades, Brisbane retiree Joan Martinuzziworried she was not enoughbut at 71 she is finally embracing her zest for living, while science says her lifestyle may help herlive longer. Subscribe now for. . .
For decades, Brisbane retiree Joan Martinuzziworried she was not enoughbut at 71 she is finally embracing her zest for living, while science says her lifestyle may help herlive longer. Subscribe now for unlimited access. or signup to continue readingAll articles from our websiteThe digital version ofToday'sPaperAll otherin your area"I spent a lot of my life being told there was something wrong with me," she toldThe Senior. "I've spent years trying to find out what was wrong. "After years of feeling like something was wrong with her, Joan Martinuzzi has embraced her zest for life. Pictures suppliedThe vibrant, retired teacher was often criticised for tightly packing her days with numerous activities, and overthinking the world around her. Now she is accepting that her energetic and highly organised lifestyle is an asset, not a flaw. "When I got to about 71 I thought, 'No, this is who I am'," she said. "I don't think I'm neurodivergent, but I know I have different ways of looking at life, and there's nothing wrong with me. "I've always been that sort of person. "'Not afraid' to get out thereMartinuzzi loves playing clarinet and piano, teaching public speaking and ballet and jazz dancing. Picture suppliedMartinuzzi now embraces her myriad passions, and has surrounded herself with like-minded creative, energetic friends and said she feels younger than ever. "I'm not afraid to get up and do things," she said. "I really thought that at this stage of my life that I would be slowing down, but it doesn't seem to be working like that. "Martinuzzi plays classical clarinet and piano for a local chamber music group, and regularly attends ballet and jazz dance classes, and performs in Brisbane's Lord Mayor's Seniors Cabaret. Along with maintaining a healthy diet, exercising and getting regular check-ups, Dementia Australia says maintaining social connections that bring you joy provides a protective buffer for the ageing brain. How to protect your brain and prevent dementiaResearch shows that up to 45 per cent of dementia cases are preventable. Simple lifestyle changes can helpprotect your brain from ageing and reduce your risk. Those living with dementia may also be able to slow the onset of symptoms using these steps. Look after your mental health - socialising,spending time with people you like and mebracing your hobbies can reduce your risk of depression, and help protect your brain from ageing. Manage high blood pressure -Get redgular checks of your cholesterol and LDLDon't drink too much- Moderating your alcohol intake can cut your riskStay physically active- Physical inactivity, obiesity and hypertension all increase your riskGet head injuries treated -These kinds of injuries can increase your risk, particularly if they are untreatedQuit smokingGet your hearing loss treated -People with mild hearing loss are more likely to develop dementia, and risk can be cut by getting it treatedGet your eyes tested- Untreated vision loss is another risk factor - getting your eyes checked can help your brainRecently Martinuzzi pulled together a new dance group to practice and perform cabaret, recruiting dancers, choosing the music and organising six weeks of rehearsals. She was also named president of her Brisbane Toastmasters club, a charity which trains people in becoming confident public speakers. As her life speeds up, she is also discovering when to embrace rest and ask for help where she can. "To discover who you are is one of the best things we can do in life," she said. "I'm learning to regulate myself. I'm delegating things more. I'm learning that I don't have to be responsible for everything. "A role model immortalised in printMartinuzzi's discipline and zest for life recently inspired writer Caitlin Bath to profile her in new self-help book,She's Giving Wealth, which is a guidebook helping women reclaim their energy and build the life they want. While her love of performance helps her to feel young and inspired, Martinuzzi said she also draws inspiration from her friends, particularly those who have overcome illness, and continue dancing, travelling and living life to the full. "We just value the fact that we can get out of bed in the morning and still move and still do things," she said. "We're not about to sit down and just give up. "For anyone struggling with their sense of self later in life, Martinuzzi said the best way to find yourself is to keep trying new things. "You don't learn how to be comfortable if you don't test yourself," she said. "You will be out of your comfort zone, and that's how you learn. "Is 70 the new 40? How do you feel about Joan's zest for life?Not everyone can do as much as Joan, but we would love to hear what helps you to feel young and enjoy life. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send aLetter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. More from NationalAs it happensBreaking news alertBe the first to know when news breaks.