Aging Adult Services

Promoting Healthy Aging

Many age-related conditions are often preventable or avoidable by making lifestyle changes, such as:

Exercise

• Lowers heart disease risk
• Delays the onset of diabetes
• Improves blood pressure, functional status, and performance
• Reduces the risk of falls and osteoporosis
• Enhances mental health and cognitive function

Encourage an aerobic, resistance, or balance routine for a total of 60 minutes, four or five days a week. Even a daily walk around the block is beneficial.

Diet

Many older people benefit from taking calcium and Vitamin D supplements. Diet recommendations include:

• Lots of vegetables and fruits
• Fewer simple carbohydrates, fats, and cholesterol
• A moderate amount of protein and dairy
• Avoid
  • Artificial sweeteners
  • Soda
  • Processed food

Monitor emotional health

Depression is often a factor in the aging adult population. Pay attention to the emotional well-being of the aging adult in your life, and seek help as needed.

Good emotional health includes:

• Reduction of stress and anxiety
• Maintaining social activities and interactions

Preventive care

Preventive care for aging adults includes screenings and vaccinations. Vaccinations like flu shots are important because common illnesses affect aging adults in more significant ways.

Hearing or vision problems may affect social interactions and quality of life, leading to isolation or depression. Schedule regular doctor visits, annual screenings and vaccinations for your aging adult.