September is Healthy Aging Month! During September we are raising awareness of ways older Americans can age with grace and dignity and live their best possible lives. Aging is not everyone’s favorite topic, and can be scary for some, especially if they have health problems that could worsen as they get older. However, there are some great recommendations out there for creating a healthy lifestyle. Here are 3 ways to encourage healthy aging during Healthy Aging Month.
Why Healthy Aging Month
The sooner you begin your healthy living journey, the better, but it is never too late! Building healthy habits at any point in life can only benefit you years down the road. Whether it’s healthy eating, exercise, social opportunities, or mental health care, it’s important to just start! Your healthy habits today can prevent the need for excessive medications, nursing home care, and more in the future.
* The below is not intended as medical advice. Please seek the counsel of your doctor for more information and help in reaching your health goals.
3 Ways to Encourage Healthy Aging
- Keep moving! The biggest recommendation during Healthy Aging Month is to get (and keep) moving. Find a source of exercise and daily movement that interests you and create a habit or regular schedule. Join a health club, go golfing, bowl, walk, bike, find calisthenics, yoga, weights, or even boxing classes for your age group or abilities. Ask your doctor for some daily stretching regimens, or consult a personal trainer who can help you safely use gym equipment and find exercises specifically for your goals.
- Address your mental health & stay social! These two recommendations go hand-in-hand. According to the CDC, maintaining a healthy social life has a wide variety of benefits, including: reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, and depression and anxiety; a greater ability to manage stress and anxiety; better sleep; and an increase in physical activity. For more mental health care, see a doctor and seek out therapy if needed.
- Eat healthy! Your diet can change for multiple reasons: budget, sudden life changes and loss of appetite, inability to cook for yourself, and new living arrangements (like moving to a nursing home). But it is vital to eat a balanced and healthy diet to maintain your overall health. A good diet can also help control or prevent osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Ask your doctor, or consult a nutritionist, about a balanced diet for your age and what key nutrients you should prioritize to meet your health goals.
Your age should not prevent you from taking the best care of yourself, and you can only benefit from making even the smallest change to your health routine. This Healthy Aging Month, we challenge everyone to add one new healthy habit to their daily, weekly, or monthly routine to prioritize long-term health and happiness!
If you or a loved one have been the victim of abuse or neglect, call Gharibian Law (866-624-7313) today for a FREE consultation and the best legal representation.
Learn more about Creating an Aging Friendly World and The Signs of Elder Abuse.
