Champion Your Health

Each May, Older Americans Awareness Month is celebrated. This year’s theme, “Champion Your Health” focuses on prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging. It encourages older adults to take an active role in their health — advocating for themselves, accessing preventive care, and making informed decisions that support independence.

How can individuals take charge of their health at every age?

Stay up to date on preventive care and screenings

Yearly visits to your primary care doctor are important. Talk with them about:

• Any changes to your health or concerns you may have
• Vaccinations and screenings such as a mammogram, colonoscopy or blood panel
• Family history – there may be genetic factors that could affect how you age
• Whatever else is on your mind

Socialize

Social interaction is a vital component to healthy aging. Dining with friends, playing games, participating in a book club or bible study – any of those sorts of activity engages your brain which enhances cognitive function. If you live in a senior community, take advantage of the programs, entertainment and activities they offer – it’s a great way to make friends and other connections as well.

Incorporate regular physical activity

The benefits of being active are many – it can reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, increase circulation, promote sharper thinking and memory as well as enhanced mobility. The simple act of taking a walk is a good place to start. Consider going to your local senior or community center – most offer exercise classes and other activities.

Choose nutritious meals/snacks

Of course we’ve heard this most of our adult lives, but it’s true. The food we eat, especially as we get older, can influence our physical health and well-being. Speak with a nutritionist if you need help getting started or for information about how our body processes food and nutrients differently as we age.

Keep an eye on your emotional well-being – it is just as important as your physical and mental health. For some older adults, depression may occur, due in part to leaving the workforce (“what do I do now”) and/or physical changes to our bodies which can limit our ability to participate in things we once found enjoyable. The loss of loved ones can completely upend lives and leave us lonely and isolated. Talk with trusted friends, clergy or health care professionals if you feel the need for help working through these losses.

It’s your health – take good care of it!