September
is Healthy Aging Month, a national observance that encourages people to adopt
habits that support health, independence and quality of life as they age. While
healthy aging is often associated with older adults, experts emphasize that
aging is a lifelong process, and the choices we make today can have a lasting
impact on our future well-being.
Healthy
aging focuses on staying active, engaged and proactive about your health so you
can continue doing the things that matter most to you.
One of the most important ways to support healthy aging is through regular physical activity. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Move Your Way® campaign recommends that older adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as walking, pickleball or swimming. It recommends muscle-strengthening activities such as lifting weights twice a week and balance activities such as standing on one leg - while holding on to something if needed - as well. Physical activity keeps seniors strong and independent and also helps improve mood, reduce pain and manage chronic conditions to boot. The graphic below has more ideas for getting in physical activity.
Healthy aging also involves maintaining strong social connections, eating a nutritious diet, staying engaged in healthcare decisions and keeping your mind active. According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, these activities can help improve overall health and well-being as we grow older.
Healthcare providers are increasingly using the 4Ms of Age-Friendly Care framework to focus on the unique needs of older adults. The framework includes:
- What Matters: Understanding an individual's health goals, priorities and preferences
- Medication: Reviewing medications to identify potential side effects or interactions
- Mind (Mentation): Monitoring and supporting brain health, including screening for conditions such as depression, delirium and dementia
- Mobility: Helping older adults move safely and maintain physical function and independence
Together, these four areas help ensure care is tailored to individual needs and goals and can also serve as a guide for caregivers and family members to support the health, safety and independence of older adults.
At Summit Medical Group, healthy aging is supported through a comprehensive network of healthcare services designed to help patients stay well at every stage of life. From preventive care visits and annual wellness exams to primary care, specialty care, diagnostic services and screenings, Summit Medical Group providers work with patients to identify health concerns early and develop personalized care plans that support long-term wellness. Preventive screenings and regular physician visits can help detect potential health issues before they become more serious, empowering patients to take an active role in their health as they age.
This Healthy Aging Month, consider taking one small step toward better health, whether that's scheduling a preventive care appointment, adding a daily walk to your routine, trying a new healthy recipe or discussing your wellness goals with your healthcare provider. Small choices made consistently can have a lasting impact and help you maintain your health, independence and quality of life for years to come.