September is Healthy Aging Month!

Think it’s too late to “re-invent” yourself? Think again. According to Carolyn Worthington, editor-in-chief of Healthy Aging Magazine and executive director of Healthy Aging, it’s never too late to find a new career, a new sport, passion or hobby. Worthington is the creator of September is Healthy Aging Month, an annual observance designed to focus national attention on the positive aspects of growing older. Now in its second decade, Worthington says September is Healthy Aging Month provides inspiration and practical ideas for adults, ages 50-plus, to improve their physical, mental, social and financial well being.

Why Healthy Aging? Worthington saw a need to draw attention to the myths of aging, to let people know that it’s not too late to take control of your health or try something new. September is a time when people think about getting started on new tasks after the summer. The “back to school” urge is embedded in everyone from childhood and the observance of September is Healthy Aging Month’s activities are designed to encourage people to rejuvenate and get going on positive measures that can impact the areas of physical, social, financial and mental wellness.
Part of this September’s initiative of healthy aging, centers on older adults living to the best of their capability. Kansas City Home Care, Inc. is committed to providing the highest level of in home care to seniors to allow them to function at the highest level possible. Our administrative team designs a specialized Plan of Care which is individually customized to fit each client’s particular care need. Our caregiving staff is committed to encouraging our clients to stay as independent and vibrant as possible. Our staff works with each client to meet them where they are and encourage them to improve upon their situation as best they can with personal and one on one assistance and caregiving support. Kansas City Home Care is pleased to observe September as National Healthy Aging month and encourage our clients and others throughout the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area to live a more active and healthy life.

The following are Healthy Aging Month suggestions for living a more active lifestyle:

• Back to School – You are never too old to go back to school and learn a new skill. Choose a career path that you are interested in and passionate about. You can pursue studies on-line to fit into your busy lifestyle.
• Take a volunteer vacation – Many travelers are choosing vacations that allow for meeting new people but also doing new and interesting volunteer activities.
• Get more physical exercise – Statistics show that older adults who get regular exercise are 60% less likely to develop dementia later in life. Exercise increases oxygen to the brain and releases a protein that strengthens cells and neurons.
• Initiate a financial makeover – Make an appointment with your financial advisor or find one this month to work through your current finances and long-term monetary plans.
• Follow Your Passion – Try a new sport or pick up on one that you left behind in your early days. It’s never too late and there are many options for courses, trips and lessons.
• Eat Fresh – Make a commitment to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet. September is still harvest time in many areas to seek out local farmers markets and buy local produce. Make it a habit to cook your own meals and avoid processed foods as much as possible.
• Take a trip – Travel is one of the main things that people would like to do if they had more time. Sometimes financial concerns also get in the way. There are many travel sites for finding good airfare and hotel rates. Do your research and determine what you can afford. You might be surprised what you can do if you take the time to research your options.
• Stop Smoking – You know by now that smoking is harmful to you. If you want to stay healthy as you age, it’s critical that you stop smoking as soon as possible. According to the National Institutes of Health, smoking harms nearly every organ of the body and leads to lung cancer, lung disease, heart and blood vessel disease, stroke and cataracts. And, if you want to look your best as you age, consider this: Smoking causes wrinkles and speeds up the aging of your skin.
• Get regular checkups – One of the best ways to stop health problems before they start, or in the early stages, is to get regular checkups. Your doctor will look at your age, family history, personal medical history, and your lifestyle habits (such as your diet and how much you exercise) to decide what tests and screenings you will need.

Sources: Healthy Aging website , National Institute of Health

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