TCM Health Preservation for the Elderly
As people age, their general constitution tends toward deficiency, especially blood deficiency. Blood nourishes internal organs and externally moistens skin, hair, tendons, and bones, maintaining normal function of all organs and tissues. Once blood is insufficient, various symptoms appear: pale or dull complexion, dizziness, blurred vision, palpitations, insomnia, joint stiffness, limb numbness, dry, itchy skin, fatigue, pale tongue, and weak pulse. This constitution often results from old age, weakened physique, low spleen-stomach function leading to inadequate blood production, or excessive emotional stress consuming hidden blood. The core principle for elderly health preservation is to nourish blood and supplement qi to generate blood.
One: Dietary Regulation: Regularly consume mulberries, lychees, pine nuts, black fungus, spinach, carrots, pork, lamb, beef liver, lamb liver, softshell turtle, sea cucumber, and flatfish—all foods with blood-nourishing properties.
Two: Avoid “Excessive Eye Strain Damaging Blood”: TCM holds “eyes need blood to see.” Prolonged reading, newspaper reading, or watching TV damages visual function and further depletes already insufficient blood. After about one hour of visual activity, take breaks to relax eye muscles and restore visual fatigue.
Three: Avoid Mental Overexertion: Blood circulation relates to the heart; the brain relies on constant blood supply from the heart. Excessive thinking consumes heart blood. Thus, elderly people, especially those with blood deficiency, should avoid mental overuse. When feeling mentally fatigued, adjust by enjoying scenery, uplifting mood, and quickly relieving mental exhaustion.
Four: Maintain Optimistic Emotions: Blood-deficient individuals often feel listless, sleep poorly, forgetful, and distracted. Thus, they should uplift spirits. When anxious or depressed, talk to friends, listen to music, or watch comedies to actively relieve sadness and quickly regain mental vigor.
Five: Actively Participate in Physical Exercise: Elderly people frequently complain of pain and itching, largely due to blood deficiency. Regular physical activity promotes blood and qi circulation, reducing or preventing pain. However, exercise intensity should not be too high. Preferred activities include traditional exercises like Tai Chi and Baduanjin, or outdoor activities like hiking and spring outings—both provide fresh air and physical movement.