Two keys to healthy aging:
• Lead a healthy lifestyle
• Be an informed health consumer
Do YOu Know ............?
• Research shows that people who have healthy lifestyles not only live longer
but also have better cognitive abilities, fewer health problems, and fewer
disabilities than those who do not have healthy lifestyles.
• Those who are healthier as they age enjoy a better quality of life, with greater
independence and ability to engage in the activities they enjoy.
• People with good social relationships tend to be healthier.
• People with a conscientious and flexible personality tend to be healthier.
• Consumers who are informed about their medical options receive better
health care.
• Preventive health screenings, such as annual visits to your physician, are
especially important for people with genetic or family predispositions to illness..
Never say Never...:)
Many people think there is nothing they can do about aging. However, how you
age is partly a function of your lifestyle. Whether you are 30 or 80, it is never
too late to benefit from eating well, exercising regularly, and maintaining healthy
lifestyle habits.
Be an Informed Health Consumer:))
Informed health consumers learn about the physical changes that occur with
aging and those that are caused by disease. They educate themselves about
how to stay healthy and prevent illness and disability. If they do become ill, they
find out about their treatment options and the risks and benefits of each.
It is not only important to know how to optimize your personal health but also
to learn how to get the health care you need when you need it. The health care
delivery system in the United States is a complex and potentially confusing system.
Learn how to navigate your way through it, advocate for yourself when
working with health professionals, and stay informed about health benefits and
services, and you will be better equipped to manage your health and work as a
team with your health care providers.
It’s never too early to clarify and communicate your own health values and
needs and learn about those of your loved ones. Be sure to tell your loved ones
your wishes in the event you need emergency or end-of-life care and are unable
to communicate your desires to your health care providers. You may also wish
to consider appointing a personal representative, such as a surrogate decision
maker or health care proxy.
@Young Adults
• Develop a healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, and
regular physical activity.
• See your health care provider for recommended preventive health services.
• Develop skills to manage stress and regulate your emotional health.
• Educate yourself about health, self-care, and prevention. Be an advocate for
yourself and your family in health care settings.
• Take advantage of ways to promote your physical and mental health (e.g.,
programs offered by your employer or in your community; health screenings
and preventive tests covered by your health insurance).
• Avoid environmental risks that may cause immediate or long-term physical damage
(e.g., tanning booths, tobacco, driving without a seat belt).
Middle-Aged Adults :) that could be quite impressive :)
• Continue to be attentive to living a healthy lifestyle, including building
physical strength and flexibility through regular exercise.
• Create positive emotional experiences for yourself and learn how to go with
the flow.
• Continue to educate yourself about your health and actively partner with your
health care providers to ensure you receive the care you need.
• Monitor your health risk factors and participate in recommended health screenings
(e.g., colonoscopy).
• Stay on top of developments in health promotion, disease prevention, and
the management of chronic conditions.
• Evoke stress-management strategies and continue to regulate your
emotional health.
• Be an advocate for yourself and your family in health care settings. If you find
yourself in a caregiving role for an aging loved one, seek the help and support
you need to take care of both yourself and your loved one.
• If sensory, cognitive, and physical capabilities begin to change, seek information
and support to help you maintain your daily functions.
Older Adults :((
Continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, and
make accommodations for any changes in your function, e.g. hearing, vision,
flexibility, or strength.
• Continue to engage in routine preventive health behaviors (e.g., get immunizations
for flu and pneumonia and booster shots as recommended, participate in
cancer screenings, and stay physically and mentally active).
• Continue to advocate for yourself and your family in health care settings or
bring a knowledgeable representative with you. Do not be afraid to ask questions
or get a second opinion.
• Keep an accurate record of all medications with dosing instructions to review
with all of your health care providers and pharmacist. Clarify anything that does
not make sense to you.
• Maintain good stress management and emotional health. As you experience
age-related losses, seek the support of others to help you cope with those losses.
• Live in a community that will provide you with needed support as you age.
Socialization, activity, and access to quality health care and transportation will
all help you remain healthy, happy, and engaged as you age.
enjoy YOur life.........:))