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Healthy aging is more than being physically healthy. Aging well involves a host of other factors, such as emotional, financial, spiritual, and mental health. In September, seniors are urged to be proactive about their well-being and make choices to keep themselves independent and vibrant.
Growing older comes with inevitable challenges. Changes happen at both the physical and cognitive level. Seniors slow down with age, developing chronic health conditions, such as arthritis or disability, which hinder their ability to lead fully independent lives. Cognitive changes occur, too.
The risk of stroke or dementia increases with age. Memory declines to varying degrees as people grow older. Cognitive changes like these increase an elderly individual’s reliance on caregivers, whether family or professional. Fortunately, seniors can make lifestyle choices to stay healthy and comfortable.
Healthy Aging Month is the ideal time to make these changes. It’s never too late for older adults to reinvent themselves and lead lives full of vigor and happiness. Whether seniors aim to improve their health, learn a new hobby, or travel more, September is the month to start.
This month is set aside to bring attention to the positive aspects of growing older. People across the US have observed Healthy Aging Month for two decades and continue to benefit from its influence. September’s Healthy Aging Month provides inspiration and practical advice for aging well.
Programs built around Healthy Aging Month are intended to boost seniors’ physical, social, mental, and financial fitness. A variety of television specials, books, videos, blogs, and websites bring awareness to the importance of pursuing an active lifestyle and staying positive.
How do seniors reinvent themselves during Healthy Aging Month?
1. Smile More
Smiling more inevitably leads to feeling happier, research shows. Older adults are inclined to smile more when they take care of their oral hygiene. Visit the dentist at least annually for a checkup. Good oral health is equally important to overall physical health.
2. Socialize
Seniors who complain of loneliness are stuck in a trap. Instead of ruminating on the lack of friends or family, older adults are urged to volunteer or take a class. Being in the company of likeminded individuals and working toward a common cause instantly erases feelings of loneliness.
Taking a computer class, for instance, keeps the elderly up to date on current technology. Older adults can also reduce their loneliness with the help of professional companion caregivers who play games, converse, and pursue hobbies or leisure activities with their care recipient.
One important aspect of socializing is to be surrounded by positive people. Seniors who aim to lead happier lives distance themselves from friends who spread negativity. Rather, choose people who have a positive outlook on life—which can be contagious.
3. Exercise Regularly
A walk around the block is reinvigorating and clears up a senior’s mind. Plus, the older adult is likely to run into neighbors, who can be gateways to uplifting conversations. Seniors who feel unconfident about walking on sidewalks can bring along a caregiver for physical support and stability.
Seniors should aim to exercise for at least 150 minutes per week, which amounts to 20 to 30 minutes per day. Perform muscle strengthening exercises twice a week. Staying active delays the onset of disease, manages existing ailments, reduces the risk of falling, and improves brain health.
4. Schedule Medical Screenings
Just as a routine dental checkup catches oral health issues, a regular medical screening can detect illnesses before they have a chance to spread or become severe. Seniors are advised to schedule an annual exam. Professional caregivers are available to provide the transportation.
5. Take Up a Hobby
Another part of reinventing oneself is picking up a hobby that delivers excitement. Some older adults may have always wanted to play the violin or paint but never pursued classes. Healthy Aging Month is the right time to unleash an inner artist, learn new skills, and remain sharp.
6. Stay Mentally Stimulated
Although dementia primarily affects older people, it is not a normal part of aging. Reduce age-related cognitive impairments or manage existing dementia by exercising the brain. Engage in intellectually stimulating activities, like reading, playing Sudoku, or learning a new skill.
Optimum brain health is also achieved by making healthier lifestyle choices. Stop smoking, get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night, and stay socially active. Address any concerns about brain health or memory with a physician who can suggest treatment options.
7. Eat Healthy
September is filled with autumn fruits and vegetables fresh off the vines. Use this month and its abundant harvests to start eating healthier. Nutrient-dense foods also include lean meats, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains. Avoid products that are high in cholesterol, fat, and artificial ingredients.
Healthy Aging Month is the ideal time for a senior to evaluate their care needs. If extra in-home support would be beneficial, consider the professional caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care. We provide quality, hands-on non-medical elder care to seniors in the comfort of home.
Our care services are flexible and comprehensive. We shop for fresh groceries, prepare healthy meals, and perform light housekeeping to keep the home clean and clutter-free. Caregivers also perform fall risk assessments and remove fall hazards so that the elderly avoid falls and injuries.
We offer discreet help with personal hygiene tasks, such as bathing, toileting, and dressing. Seniors receive reliable transportation and escort to local areas in the community, such as a medical facility or dental office for checkups. Caregivers also give timely medication reminders.
Care options are varied and range from intermittent respite care (ideal when family caregivers need a break) to ongoing live-in care. We also offer compassionate dementia care, post-hospitalization care, and overnight care. Our caregivers are licensed, bonded, and insured to give seniors peace of mind.
Older adults who’d like support with the activities of daily living are encouraged to consider Assisting Hands Home Care. We serve seniors living in Mansfield, TX | Burleson, TX | Waxahachie, TX | Cleburne, TX | Midlothian, TX and the surrounding areas. Call us at (817) 592-8843 to schedule a free in-home consult today and make every month healthy aging month.
