Did you know that September is Healthy Aging Month? This monthly focus was designated to focus national attention on the positive aspects of growing older. It is the perfect time to celebrate healthy aging since it’s also a time many people may think about starting a new task or setting a new schedule after the summer months.
There are many myths surrounding aging, and at Heatherwood we feel it’s never too late to take control of your health and get started on something new! Draw attention to how you can age in a healthy way with these 5 tips:
1) Activate Your Mind
Learn something new! At Heatherwood we’re conducting a Senior Academy this month to further resident’s education with Youtube educational seminars. We encourage you to also explore educational videos and documentaries on Youtube or other streaming services such as Netflix. Ask a friend or loved one if they have any recommendations!
If you do not have access to video channels, reading is another beneficial way to activate your mind. Visit your local library or borrow a book from a friend! You might be surprised by the adventure a good book can take you on.
2) Move Your Body with Yoga
Stretch towards a healthier you by practising beginner yoga postures to improve balance, flexibility, and strength. Yoga helps to awaken small muscles that may have been asleep for some time, so in order to ensure no harm is caused consult with your physician before you try any new forms of the practise. Take your time with a gentle yoga practise or by doing some simple stretches. Remember to breathe through each posture and enjoy the challenge and changes it may bring to your body, mood, and mindset.
At Heatherwood, we are privileged to have our Life & Leisure Director Sylvia trained in the art of yoga! Sylvia’s passion fills the room when she leads her practise, and her weekly classes have become a favorite activity among residents.
3) Fill Your Body with Good Food
Nutrition is a key ingredient to healthy aging. Filling your body with the nutrients it needs can help bring both physical and mental support to your life. Eating meals that are healthy whole foods such as veggies, fruits, grains, and non-processed foods can have a direct effect on your daily energy levels.
For this and many other tasty reasons, our all-inclusive dining menu at Heatherwood includes fresh and locally sourced ingredients. After all, you need to fuel your body well in order to keep it active!
4) Stay Social
Make new friends or make an effort to visit with old ones by scheduling some interactions for the month. Socializing with friends and family helps to combat health issues that isolation can cause such as anxiety or depression.
At Heatherwood, our Activity Calendar is filled with social events to keep you stimulated while having fun! We make it easy for you to have something to look forward to, and our staff is always here with a smile if you need someone to talk to.
5) Maintain a Positive Mindset
Implementing daily reminders to help your mindset can make a huge impact on healthy aging. Keeping a positive attitude through life isn’t always easy, but by focussing on the positive aspects of life and addressing problems properly you will find that you will be happier in your own life.
At Heatherwood, we don’t like to ‘act our age’ – it’s only a number after all! Instead we like to believe that age is defined by the joy on our faces, and that healthy aging is easier when you surround yourself with good people who make you smile, laugh, and bring true joy to your life.
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For more tips on healthy aging, stop by Heatherwood! Book your visit by calling 208-345-2150 or fill out a contact form HERE.
