Healthy Aging Month
Healthy Aging Month, observed each September, is a reminder that healthy aging isn’t just about adding years to life; it’s about adding life to years. Below is a detailed look at the most important factors for staying healthy as people age, are organized into interconnected areas of well-being.
Physical Health and Preventive Care include eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, woe grains, and healthy fats. Calcium, vitamin D, magnesium and protein maintain bone and muscle strength.
Movement: Incorporate activities like walking, swimming, cycling for heart health, strength training to maintain muscle mass and add flexibility and balance exercises like yoga.
Medical Check-Ups: Don’t forget to schedule regular checks ups that include blood pressure, cholesterol glucose, cancer screenings and stay current with vaccinations.
Active Mind: Stimulate your brain through reading, puzzles or new hobbies to delay cognitive decline. Don’t forget to prioritize hearing and vision care to reduce cognitive strain and isolation.
Reduce Stress by adding meditation, prayer or breathwork to prevent the harming effects of aging. Use counseling or therapy to process life transitions, grief, trauma, or depression. Increase purpose and joy in your life.
Social Connections: include strong family bonds and social networks to reduce depression, dementia and include life span. Try joining clubs or volunteer because it promotes belonging and enriches emotional health.
Fall Prevention: Installing grab bars, canes, walkers to reduce fall risk.
Join me this month in making health changes so together we can live a longer and more independent life.