Tradition. It is a word that is totally linked to our elders, our land and the way we live in it. It represents all the habits and customs that are transmitted generation after generation and that forge the identity of a family, a village or a community as a whole.
Mainly, the tradition of a group of people (whether family or community) develops on a day-to-day basis, but it achieves its differentiation and true identity thanks to dates as marked in the calendars of all our grandmothers and grandfathers as Christmas Eve, ‘ the slaughter’ or, especially, the village’s patron saint or popular festival, surely the most anticipated time of the year for our elders, not only because of the joy it brings, but also because of the emotional burden it represents in relation to their past, their ancestors and their roots. These celebrations become a link between generations, ensuring that memory and traditions are not lost to oblivion.
However, regardless of whether these dates last over time, the important thing is that the way of living them does not fade away, since that is where the true identity of the communities lies.
(Dr. Gladys McGarey, in her book ‘The Six Secrets of Longevity’ which she published after turning 102)
The great protagonists of traditional festivals
At this time of year the real protagonists are the elderly. They are the ones who, with their memories, stories and teachings, keep the essence of these celebrations alive and are also the reason why many families continue to see each other and get together at this time.
The fact of being able to continue maintaining these traditional unions is a real boost of excitement and happiness for these people and especially if they are usually in a situation of loneliness, which is why it undoubtedly represents enormous motivation to continue adding experiences, surrounded by their loved ones. dear ones.
According to Pablo Vivanco, pharmacist, popularizer and president of Ourensividad, genetics has a 30% impact on longevity, the remaining 70% corresponds to epigenetics, and in this sense maintaining an active social life is one of the keys, through of roots in traditions and family gatherings, as a therapy that promotes healthy physical and mental longevity.
The impact of traditions on healthy aging
Participation in family and community events not only has an emotional impact, but also influences the health and quality of life of older people.
Being and feeling active: the arrival of these dates implies an enormous enthusiasm for preparing a typical dish or a dessert, thinking of a surprise or gift for the little ones, or even preparing the house or cooperating in the activities of these dates, and these exercises They represent a true vital stimulus.
Emotional well-being: meetings strengthen family relationships and friendships, and reduce the feeling of loneliness, one of the main challenges that older people face.
Cognitive stimulation: remembering and sharing stories, participating in the organization of the party or participating in games, such as cards, are activities that keep the mind active.
Physical activity: preparing for the celebration, dancing or simply participating actively in a party means staying mobile, something essential for quality aging.
Ourense, an example of longevity rooted in traditions.
The phenomenon of centenaries in Ourense highlights the role that traditions play in longevity. Here, family and social customs are deeply rooted, especially in rural areas. Traditions such as ‘the slaughter’ or the patron saint’s festivities become true engines of connection, which promote socially active, mentally healthy, full and happy aging.
Author: Sergio Gil Pazos.
References:
Baur, R., y Egeler, R. (2001). Gimnasia, juego y deporte para mayores. Barcelona: Paidotribo
Fernández-Ballesteros, R. (2011). Envejecimiento saludable. In Congreso sobre envejecimiento. La investigación en España (pp. 9-11).
Galván, G., & María, A. (2011). Efectos del juego en la autoestima del adulto mayor.
Mascareñas, M. (2024, 29 marzo). Dra. Gladys McGarey. TELVA.
McGarey, G. (2023). The Well-lived Life: A 102-year-old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age. Simon and Schuster.
Morillas, M. Á., & Megías, L. R. El Juego de Mesa en Personas Mayores: La Gran Herramienta Social.