September is Healthy Aging Month

Author

Brightstar Care of MSC

For more information about the author, click to view their website: BrightStar Care

Posted on

Sep 19, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties , Florida - Southwest

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The numbers of people over 45 is growing every year. People are hoping to stay active and vibrant as long as possible. There are over 76 million baby boomers today over 50, and the first of the 82.1 million Generation X-ers are about to reach that milestone in 2015, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

According to Carolyn Worthington, editor-in-chief of Healthy Aging® Magazine and creator of September is Healthy Aging Month(Opens in a new window), it’s never too late to find a new career, a new sport, passion or hobby. Healthy Aging Month is an annual observance month designed to focus national attention on the positive aspects of growing older that began over 20 years ago.

Tips for Reinventing Yourself As You Age

To get you started on re-inventing yourself, here are 10 tips from Healthy Aging Magazine(Opens in a new window):

  1. Do not act your age or at least what you think your current age should act like. What was your best year so far? 28? 40? Now? Picture yourself at that age and be it.
  2. Be positive in your conversations and your actions every day.
  3. Have negative friends who complain all of the time and constantly talk about how awful everything is?
  4. Walk like a vibrant, healthy person. Make a conscious effort to take big strides, walk with your heel first and wear comfortable shoes.
  5. Stand up straight. You can knock off the appearance of a few extra years with this trick your mother kept trying to tell you. Fix your stance and practice it every day. You will look great and feel better.
  6. How’s your smile? Research shows people who smile more often are happier.
  7. Lonely? Stop brooding and complaining about having no friends or family. Do something about it now. Right this minute.
  8. Start walking not only for your health but to see the neighbors.
  9. Make this month the time to set up your annual physical and other health screenings.
  10. Find your inner artist. Sign up now for fall art or music classes and discover your inner artist!

WebMD - Healthy Aging Tips

Follow these tips from WebMD to stay at your peak!

  1. Get moving - Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy body and brain.
  2. Stay social - Take a class, volunteer, play games, see old friends, and make new ones.
  3. Bulk up - Eat beans and other high-fiber foods for digestive and heart health.
  4. Add some spice - Add herbs and spices to your meals if medications dull your taste buds.
  5. Stay balanced - Practice yoga or tai chi to improve agility and prevent falls.
  6. Take a hike - Brisk daily walks this September can bolster both your heart and lungs.
  7. Sleep well - Talk to a sleep specialist if you don’t sleep soundly through the night.
  8. Beat the blues - If you’ve been down for a while, see a doctor.
  9. Don’t forget - To aid your memory, make lists, follow routines, slow down, and organize.

Fall Prevention

Fall prevention is an important component to healthy aging. Elderly people can lose their sense of balance, judgment and motor skills as they get older. This results in awkward falls, and with weakened bones, extreme cases can lead to severe breaks or even further gravely complications.

Other Articles You May Like

How Non-Medical Home Care Companies Help Seniors with Meal Preparation

The Importance of Meal Preparation for SeniorsEating well is essential for seniors to stay healthy, maintain strength, and manage chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. However, aging often brings challenges that interfere with regular eating habits: Limited mobility or arthritis can make it difficult to stand, chop, or lift cookware. Cognitive decline may cause a person to forget meals or how to safely use kitchen appliances. Loss of appetite or interest in cooking, especially when living alone. Dietary restrictions that require careful meal planning. With a little help, many seniors can continue enjoying nutritious meals that support their health and well-being. How Non-Medical Home Care Companies Help with Meal Prep1. Meal Planning and Grocery AssistanceCaregivers can help plan meals that are both nutritious and tailored to individual preferences and dietary needs. Whether following a doctors recommendations or simply planning favorite family recipes, caregivers help seniors feel involved and in control. They can also assist with creating shopping lists and even accompany the senior to the store or coordinate grocery delivery.2. Safe Meal PreparationFrom chopping vegetables to using the stove, many kitchen tasks can pose risks for older adults. Caregivers take care of the preparationwashing, slicing, cooking, and plating mealsensuring everything is handled safely and hygienically.3. Accommodating Special DietsWhether a senior needs a low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, soft, or heart-healthy diet, caregivers can prepare meals that follow those guidelines. This attention to detail helps seniors stay healthy while still enjoying their food.4. Encouraging Regular Eating HabitsSkipping meals or snacking instead of eating real meals is common among seniors. Caregivers gently remind and encourage clients to eat at regular times, promoting better nutrition and preventing unintended weight loss or blood sugar fluctuations.5. Companionship During MealsMealtimes can be lonely for seniors who live alone, often leading to a loss of appetite. Caregivers can provide companionship at the table, turning meals into a more social and enjoyable experience.6. Light CleanupAfter the meal, caregivers help with light kitchen cleanupwashing dishes, wiping counters, and putting leftovers away. This ensures a clean and safe space, and takes a burden off the seniors shoulders. Supporting Independence and DignityNon-medical home care companies empower seniors to remain in their homes while receiving the help they need to stay nourished and healthy. Care is always respectful and centered around the individualensuring that seniors continue to feel independent, heard, and valued.  

Healthy Eating Tips for Older Adults: Nourishing Your Body at Every Age

As we age, our nutritional needs changebut the importance of eating well never does. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help older adults maintain energy, support brain function, strengthen bones, manage chronic conditions, and boost immunity. Healthy eating doesnt have to be complicated, its about making small, consistent choices that nourish the body and promote overall well-being.Here are some practical and easy-to-follow healthy eating tips tailored to older adults: 1. Focus on Nutrient-Dense FoodsAs metabolism slows with age, the body needs fewer calories but more nutrients. Prioritize foods that pack a nutritional punch without empty calories. Choose fruits and vegetables in a variety of colors for a range of vitamins and antioxidants. Opt for whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread for fiber and sustained energy. Include lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, eggs, beans, and fish. Add healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fishlike salmon. 2. Watch Portion SizesOlder adults often need fewer calories than they did in their younger years. Be mindful of portion sizes and aim to listen to your bodys hunger and fullness cues. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help manage appetite and blood sugar levels. 3. Stay HydratedDehydration is common in seniors because the sense of thirst often decreases with age. Make a habit of drinking water regularly throughout the day, even if you dont feel thirsty. Flavor water with fruit slices or herbs for variety. Limit caffeine and sugary drinks, which can dehydrate or add empty calories. Include hydrating foods like cucumbers, melons, and soups. 4. Prioritize Bone HealthAs bones naturally lose density over time, its important to consume enough calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone strength. Choose low-fat dairy products, fortified plant-based milk, leafy greens, and canned salmon with bones. Talk to your doctor about whether a vitamin D supplement is right for you, especially if you spend limited time in the sun. 5. Limit Added Sugar and SaltToo much sugar and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Read food labels and aim for low-sodium and no-added-sugar options. Season meals with herbs, spices, or lemon juice instead of salt. Swap sweets for naturally sweet fruits like berries, apples, or grapes. 6. Eat Fiber-Rich FoodsFiber supports digestion, helps prevent constipation, and can lower cholesterol levels. Include beans, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts in your meals. Gradually increase fiber and drink plenty of fluids to help your body adjust. 7. Dont Skip MealsSkipping meals can lead to dips in blood sugar, fatigue, and overeating later in the day. Try to eat regular meals and snacks to maintain steady energy and avoid nutrient deficiencies. 8. Pay Attention to Dental HealthDental problems can make chewing difficult, which may lead to avoiding healthy foods. Choose softer, easy-to-chew options like: Cooked vegetables Soft fruits (bananas, applesauce) Ground or shredded meat Smoothies, soups, and stews If you wear dentures or experience mouth pain, talk to your dentist about comfortable food options. 9. Enjoy Your MealsEating should be a pleasant and social experience. Make mealtime enjoyable by: Sharing meals with family, friends, or neighbors Trying new recipes or healthy versions of favorite dishes Eating in a well-lit, calm environment At Avondale Care Group of Pennsylvania our services are fully customizable, allowing us to create a care plan that perfectly matches your personal routines and preferences.

The Importance of Hydration in Seniors

Staying hydrated is essential for everyone, but its especially critical for older adults. As we age, our bodies go through changes that can increase the risk of dehydrationyet many seniors are unaware of just how important proper hydration is for their health and well-being.Why Seniors Are More Prone to DehydrationThere are several reasons why older adults are at higher risk for dehydration: Reduced Sense of Thirst: Aging can dull the bodys natural thirst signals, meaning seniors may not feel thirsty even when their bodies need water. Medications: Diuretics, laxatives, and certain blood pressure or heart medications can cause increased fluid loss. Decreased Kidney Function: As kidneys age, they become less efficient at conserving water, increasing fluid loss. Mobility or Cognitive Issues: Physical limitations or cognitive decline may make it harder to access water or remember to drink throughout the day. Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, heart disease, and other medical issues common in older adults can contribute to dehydration risk. The Impact of Dehydration on Senior HealthEven mild dehydration can have significant effects on a seniors health, including: Fatigue and Weakness: Dehydration can lead to low energy levels and muscle weakness, increasing fall risk. Confusion and Cognitive Decline: Lack of fluids may cause symptoms that mimic dementia or worsen existing cognitive issues. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Inadequate hydration can lead to more frequent UTIs, which can be serious in older adults. Constipation: Water helps keep the digestive system movingwithout enough, seniors may struggle with bowel issues. Kidney Stones and Damage: Chronic dehydration can contribute to kidney problems. Tips to Help Seniors Stay HydratedEncouraging proper hydration doesnt have to be complicated. Here are some practical tips: Set a Routine: Encourage drinking water with each meal and between meals. Setting reminders or using a water-tracking app can help. Offer a Variety of Fluids: Water is best, but herbal teas, milk, and broth-based soups count, too. Limit caffeine and sugary drinks. Make It Appealing: Infuse water with fruit slices or herbs like mint to add flavor without extra sugar. Monitor Intake: Caregivers and family members should watch for signs of dehydration and gently encourage regular fluid intake. Choose Hydrating Foods: Water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and lettuce can help supplement fluid intake. Watch for Warning SignsIts important to recognize early signs of dehydration in seniors, such as: Dry mouth or cracked lips Dark urine or reduced urination Dizziness or lightheadedness Confusion or irritability Fatigue Headaches Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and may require hospitalization for IV fluids and close monitoring.

Local Services By This Author

BrightStar Care of Venice

Non-Medical 425 Commercial Ct., Unit F, Venice, Florida, 34292

Dedicated In-Home Care by BrightStar Care of Venice and Port CharlotteBrightStar Care of Venice and Port Charlotte is dedicated to providing the best in-home care for you or a loved one. We are a Nurse Owned and Family Operated Private Duty Home Care Agency, offering a range of services to meet your needs:Companion Services: Meal preparation, transportation, light housekeepingPersonal Care: Bathing, dressing, transfersSkilled Care: Assessments, medication management, med box fillsMedical Staffing: Providing professional healthcare staff for various needsBrightStar Care is Joint Commission Accredited and has been recognized as a Leader in Excellence, Provider of Choice, and Employer of Choice from 2016 to 2020 by Home Care Pulse. All our caregivers are background checked, drug tested, bonded, and insured.We are available 24/7 and just a phone call away, ready to provide reliable and compassionate care whenever you need it.

BrightStar Care of Port Charlotte

Non-Medical 1777 Tamiami Trail #408, Port Charlotte, Florida, 33948

BrightStar Home Care's commitment to providing high-quality, person-centered care shines through their dedication to improving the lives of individuals in need. Their focus on delivering a higher standard of care ensures that each client receives the personalized support they deserve, tailored to their unique needs and preferences.The recognition BrightStar Home Care Port Charlotte has received, including Joint Commission accreditation, speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence and adherence to rigorous healthcare quality standards. Achieving and maintaining this accreditation demonstrates their dedication to ensuring the highest level of care and safety for their clients.By adhering to BrightStar Care policies and procedures, state licensure requirements, and Joint Commission standards, they provide peace of mind to clients and their families, knowing that their loved ones are receiving care of the highest caliber.Furthermore, BrightStar Home Care's emphasis on clinical quality not only ensures the safety and well-being of clients but also plays a crucial role in preventing hospital readmissions. This proactive approach to care underscores their commitment to promoting positive health outcomes and enhancing the overall quality of life for those they serve.Overall, BrightStar Home Care's dedication to excellence, person-centered care, and clinical quality sets a commendable standard in the home care industry, providing invaluable support and peace of mind to individuals and families during challenging times.

BrightStar Care of Port Charlotte

Home Health 1777 Tamiami Trail #408, Port Charlotte, Florida, 33948

BrightStar Care of Venice and Port Charlotte is dedicated to providing the best in-home care for you or a loved one. We are a Nurse Owned and Family Operated Private Duty Home Care Agency offering Companion Services (meal prep, transportation, light housekeeping), Personal Care (bathing, dressing, transfers), and Skilled Care (assessments, medication management, med box fills). We also provide Medical Staffing. BrightStar Care is Joint Commission Accredited and Awarded Leader in Excellence, Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice 2016 - 2020 by Home Care Pulse. All caregivers are background checked, drug tested, bonded and insured. We are available 24/7...Just a phone call away!