Healthy Aging Month
September 2024
According to the 2020 U.S. census, the population of Americans aged 65 or older grew between 2010 and 2020 at its fastest rate since the 1880s. One in six people in the U.S. are now 65 and older. With a growing population of older people, it is necessary to learn ways to age healthily. Common health issues found in old age can be prevented, helping you remain healthy and independent.
Here are some ways you can keep healthy!
Eat and Drink Healthy!
Stay hydrated
Eat nutrient-dense foods
Fruits
Vegetables
Whole grains
Lean meats
Low-fat dairy products
Eating the right foods can help boost your energy naturally, making you feel less lethargic!
Get Regular Checkups
Helps doctors catch chronic diseases early
Reduces risk factors for disease, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Those who regularly go to checkups have also been found to have an improved quality of life and feelings of wellness
Be Aware of Changes in Brain Health
These are examples of healthy behaviors that can reduce age-related cognitive decline and manage dementia!
Engaging in socially and intellectually stimulating activities
Getting enough sleep
Not smoking
Move More, Sit Less
Staying active can help you prevent, delay, and manage chronic diseases, improve balance and stamina, reduce the risk of falling, and improve brain health.
Try walking 20-30 minutes a day, or build muscle by lifting books or groceries for as many reps as you want. Any activity is better than no activity!
Check & Adjust Your Mental Health
Mental health is part of overall health!
Train yourself to think more positively; connections have been found between positive thinking and longevity, and easier management of stressful interactions and events.
Be Social!
Loneliness and isolation can cause adverse health effects, such as high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, anxiety, and depression. By being social, the risk for these health effects decrease.
There are plenty of social activities here everyone is welcomed to, but you could also look into programs through local libraries! Living at Friends Village, you also get a membership to the Newtown Co. Library.
