September is a time to think about something most adults would like to forget – getting older! September is Healthy Aging Month as well as Falls Prevention Awareness Week (this year it’s September 22-26). In the U.S., people are living longer than in previous years and may experience several changes to their minds and bodies as the years go by, both good and bad. It is possible to enjoy all the years of our lives in health, happiness, and vigor, but the key is to start healthy aging habits early in life.
What are some healthy aging habits?
Nutrition and Physical Activity
As we age, it’s important to eat a variety of foods from all five food groups, limiting our intake of sugar, saturated fats, and sodium. Concentrate on eating enough protein to maintain muscle mass and make sure you are eating food and beverages with calcium for strong bones. Sometimes as we age, we may lose some of our sense of thirst, so be sure to make time to keep yourself hydrated.
Don’t forget to exercise too! Regular physical activity can keep older adults strong and independent. Start the habit today of at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week.
Financial Health
We also want to keep our finances healthy as we get older. It’s important to keep an eye on your budget at any age, but also consider the financial changes that could be coming your way in the future. Review your medical insurance plan each year for changes in your deductible and out-of-pocket coverage. Know what procedures and medications will be covered under your private insurance or Medicare. Also take time to review your estate with a professional so that you know how your money will one day be distributed to your heirs.
When you are out shopping, dining, or seeing sites, don’t be shy – ask about the senior discounts, if you qualify! This can help you save money to use for other experiences!
Social and Mental Well-being
With aging comes times of life transitions – moving to new homes, retirement, and the loss of loved ones. Making sure to keep socially active through these transition periods can have huge health benefits. Schedule regular times to visit with friends each week/month or take time to talk on the phone with one another. Talk to your neighbors as you are getting your mail, or take a class at your local library.
Keep up on regular hearing checks – hearing loss is a common reason people begin to socially isolate themselves as the loss of hearing makes it harder to keep up with conversations. Hearing aids are an easy fix to ensure you stay part of the discussion.
Lastly, don’t worry if you feel you are behind in beginning healthy aging habits – it is never too late to make a positive change in your lifestyle. As the saying goes, “the best day to start was yesterday, the second best day is today.”
Resources:
University of Minnesota Extension. https://extension.umn.edu/later-life-decision-making/healthy-aging
CDC, Healthy Aging at Any Age. https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-aging/about/index.html
MyPlate, Older Adults. https://www.myplate.gov/life-stages/older-adults
NCOA, Money Matters. https://www.ncoa.org/article/money-matters-top-10-budgeting-tips-for-older-adults/
Mayo Clinic. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/healthy-aging/a-surprising-key-to-healthy-aging-strong-social-connections/
NCOA, Falls Prevention Awareness Week. https://www.ncoa.org/professionals/health/center-for-healthy-aging/national-falls-prevention-resource-center/falls-prevention-awareness-week/
Written By: Jessica Lowe, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Pickaway County, lowe.495@osu.edu
Reviewed By: Aaron Fowler, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Greene County, fowler.440@osu.edu