Initiated in 2003 by the International Council on Active Aging®, this weeklong campaign calls attention to and wholeheartedly celebrates the positivity of aging today. It showcases the capabilities of older adults, regardless of age or health conditions, to live as fully as possible in all areas of life: Mind. Body. Spirit.
The objective of Active Aging Week is to give as many older adults as possible the means to experience wellness activities and exercise in a safe, supportive environment. It also promotes the benefits of healthier, more active lifestyles across the life span.
Here are some tips from the International Council on Active Aging:
1. Expectations: If you've followed a healthy lifestyle this year, keep going. If you need to make lifestyle changes, start by anticipating success-and don't let age be a barrier.
2. Enthusiasm: Identify an activity or connection that sparks your enthusiasm and make it your lifeline, then do your best to extend that enthusiasm to other areas.
3. Energy: If you're tired all the time, don't let apathy and lethargy drag you down. Instead, get a checkup to try to determine the cause-and the solution.
4. Eating: Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight are keys to physical and mental health.
5. Exercise: Staying physically active fuels the body and mind. The key is to be consistent.
6. Engagement: Get involved in your community. Research has shown that people who volunteer have higher levels of well-being and life satisfaction than people who don't.
7. Emotions: Everyone feels down at times, but full-blown depression is a major cause of disability. If you're feeling out of sorts for two weeks or more, talk with your doctor or take an online screening test at www.mentalhealthscreening.org/.
8. Education: Lifelong learning is important to living an independent and fulfilling life as you advance in age.
9. Effort: Changing expectations and embarking on new behaviors take energy and effort, but the results are well worth it.
10. Enjoyment: A healthy life generally is a joyous one. Savor the process of being or becoming active, engaged and truly alive!
Living Well at Vi Highlands Ranch is an intentional holistic approach to nourishing the mind, body and spirit. See below for some upcoming events in October to keep you on the path of Active Aging! Please join us for one or more of these activities-
