Back in 1992, HealthyAging.net created September is Healthy Aging® Month to promote their healthy aging efforts through a national observance. The goal was to change older adults’ mindsets to focus on all the things they can still do, rather than concentrate on their limitations. National and local events and educational efforts are planned across the country to draw attention to healthy, active lifestyles at any age and focus on the positive aspects of growing older.
Knowing how to age well began growing in popularity as baby boomers started to hit retirement age several years ago. The stereotype of seniors sitting in rocking chairs, talking about the good old days is quickly getting replaced with that of these older adults enjoying active, vibrant lifestyles, staying involved in their communities, traveling the world, reaching their dreams and hitting their goals.
How to Age Well – Healthy Aging Tips for a Vibrant Lifestyle
By focusing on leading a healthy lifestyle, seniors can prevent a variety of chronic conditions that are responsible for up to 70 percent of deaths every year. As summer changes over to fall, it’s the perfect time to make changes to improve your overall health and wellness. Here are a few healthy aging tips to ensure you’re feeling your best in all eight dimensions of wellness:
Set your goals. Define what it is that will make you feel accomplished and improve your life. Do you need to drop 10 pounds? Would you like to eliminate sugar from your diet? Pay off a credit card once and for all? Excel at a new hobby? Whatever area of wellness you’re looking to improve, outline exactly what it is so you can keep track of your progress along the way.
Get moving. Find ways to add 30 minutes of physical activity to your day. This could be something as simple as taking a morning walk or bike ride, or finding a senior fitness program in your area. Exercise is not only good for your body, but it’s also a known mood-booster.
Expand your mind. If you’ve always wanted to learn more about the Renaissance or enhance your creative writing skills, find a class offered by a local college or senior center. Continuing to challenge your mind by expanding your skills can help decrease cognitive decline and improve overall brain function.
Create a budget – and stick to it. Are you satisfied with your current financial situation? If not, there’s no time like the present to take a good look at your budget. Cut down on some expenses by looking for ways to lower your bills so you can reduce some of the stress your finances may be causing you.
Stay productive. If you’re recently retired, you may be concerned about how you’re going to fill your days. Consider volunteering in your community, or do some consulting work to share the knowledge you’ve learned throughout your career with others.
Connect to your inner values. Consider what’s most important to you spiritually. This helps you find a sense of purpose, achieve peace within and provides more meaning to your days.
Meet new people – or stay in touch with friends. Staying socially active is also good for the mind, body and soul. Continue to build supportive, nurturing relationships with others as you age; studies show that seniors who regularly interact with others may even be able to live independently longer.
Keep a positive outlook. Finally, one of the easiest things you can do to age well is to simply stay positive. Look for the silver lining to every dark cloud and find joy in the simple things.
Age well at American Senior Communities! We offer a variety of senior healthcare services throughout our locations in Indiana, including our New Energy Wellness program designed to promote active, healthy lifestyles. Contact us today to request more information.
