September is Healthy Aging Month
It’s never too late to take steps to improve your life, and it’s just as important to do this as we grow older. Healthy Aging Month helps you remember to think of the positive aspects of aging, and not focus on the negative. As kids go back to school, think of this time of year as time for a fresh start, and challenge yourself to find ways to live a more positive and healthier lifestyle. Try some or all of these tips to get yourself started:
1. Stay active: exercise is important at any age, but it’s even more important as our bodies age to keep our bodies strong. Remember, staying active does not mean that you have to do rigorous exercise. Try taking a walk around your neighborhood, gardening, or doing low-impact exercises, such as using a stationary bike.
2. Stay social: maintaining relationships with family and friends is important as we grow older because they provide support and companionship in our lives. If many of your friends and family are not close by or it is difficult for you to visit with them, stay connected to them by talking to them on the phone, sending them an e-mail, or connecting with them through social media.
3. Eat a healthy diet. Don’t forget to incorporate plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet and avoid processed foods. Try this calculator to tell you how much fruit and vegetables you should be eating based on your daily calorie intake. If your food tastes dull from taking medications, add herbs and spices to your food to enhance flavor.
4. Keep your memory active: A healthy mind is part of an overall healthy life. To keep your mind and memory active, try crossword puzzles, reading, or playing card games to stimulate your mind. If you are forgetful from time to time, try making lists, following routines, and staying organized to help aid your memory.
5. Take a trip: As we get older, traveling can become more complicated, but with a little planning, it can easily be done. If money is a concern, consider staying with friends or family when you travel to save on hotel costs. Also, many websites offer discounts on travel costs, such as Priceline.com, Expedia.com, and Travelocity.com.
6. Volunteer: This is a great way to interact with and get to know people in your community. As we grow older and have fewer commitments to work and raising children, we have more time to devote to giving back to our community.
7. Take a class or learn a new hobby: It’s never too late to learn something new or develop a new skill. Try taking a class at a local community center or college, or find an online course that will let you learn right from your own home.
Healthy Aging Month reminds us that it’s never too late to make positive changes in your life, whether it’s making healthy lifestyle choices or trying something new that will make you happy.
Sources: Healthy Aging®