What is healthy aging?
Healthy aging is about supporting your physical, mental and social health throughout life. It means making choices that help you stay active, connected and engaged as you grow older.
While aging affects everyone differently, many people begin to notice changes in their health during midlife and beyond. In fact, by age 65, most adults are living with at least one chronic condition. That’s why focusing on prevention and healthy habits early can help improve overall well-being and quality of life over time.
Tips for living better at any age
- Focus on good nutrition. What you eat plays an important role in your overall health. A balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help support healthy aging and reduce the risk of chronic disease. Limiting added sugars, reducing sodium and staying hydrated can also support heart health and overall wellness.
- Stay physically active. Regular movement helps keep your body strong and supports mobility, balance and bone health. Activities like walking, swimming, stretching and strength training can help reduce the risk of falls while improving flexibility and overall fitness. .
- Keep your mind engaged. Just like your body, your brain benefits from regular exercise. Reading, solving puzzles, learning a new skill, getting quality sleep and staying curious can all help support cognitive health and memory as you age.
- Stay connected. Strong social connections are an important part of healthy aging. Spending time with family and friends, joining community groups or volunteering can help reduce feelings of isolation, boost mood and support both mental and physical health.
- Make preventive care a priority. Regular checkups help you stay on top of your health. Be sure to schedule recommended screenings, stay current on vaccinations and talk with your health care provider about any concerns or changes you experience.
Protecting your bones as you age
Bone health is another area that becomes increasingly important as we get older. Some bone loss is a natural part of aging. However, there are steps you can take to help keep your bones strong and lower your risk of osteoporosis. Here are three tips to follow to help you reach your goals.
- Get enough calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and reducing fracture risk. Good sources include milk, yogurt, almonds, leafy greens such as kale and broccoli and calcium-fortified foods or drinks. Your doctor can help determine the right amount of calcium based on your age and health needs.
- Don’t forget vitamin D. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and supports bone health. Because it can be difficult to get enough through food alone, talk with your doctor about whether a vitamin D supplement may be right for you.
- Prioritize protein and strength training. Protein supports healthy muscles and bones, making it an important part of a healthy diet at any age. Strength training activities, such as resistance exercises or weightlifting, can help maintain bone density, improve muscle strength and support balance and mobility.
More helpful resources
We’re supporting healthy aging this September and all year long. For more tips and resources to help you stay active and connected, check out our Healthy Aging flyer below.
Part of our Healthy Merits Program? Join this month’s Toe Touch Challenge and work on improving your flexibility all month long. Touch your toes each day for 30 days to participate. Log in through your Healthy Merits portal to learn more and get started.
