Active Aging Week

September is back to school for the young, but many adults may still feel a sense of excitement and renewal as the cooler fall weather arrives. It can be a time to set new goals and make plans for activities that will keep you engaged socially, mentally and physically.

This month also marks Active Aging Week from September 25 – October 1 2016. The campaign, led by the International Council on Active Aging, encourages seniors to embrace an active lifestyle to live their best life possible and maintain physical and mental health in older age.

The theme this year is “Explore the Possibilities,” and there are number of spotlight topics including skin health, aqua yoga and healthy eating that can be accessed through the Active Aging website at www.activeagingweek.com .

Look for local host sites including retirement communities, senior centers, health clubs, parks and community centers for group exercise classes, group walks, craft classes, health fairs, concerts, dances and demonstrations. Participating countries include the United States, Canada, Australia, India, Finland and Ireland. More than 3,000 organizations hosted events in 2015 to promote active, healthy aging.

Seniors can also follow Active Aging Week on Facebook and on Twitter at #activeagingweek.

Tips for Healthier Living

1. Keep positive! A good attitude about aging can lengthen your life by more than 7 years.

2. Nurture your interests, hobbies and talents. Do the things you enjoy to enrich your life.

3. Keep moving! Focus on your goals and stay active so you can keep doing what you love.

4. Eat a well balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables cutting out excess sugar and salt.

5. Make time for social interaction. Volunteer, make regular coffee dates, take a class.

6. Talk with your doctor about symptoms of depression that lasts for two weeks or more.

7. Keep learning new things! Brain health is stimulated by learning at all ages.

Source: International Council on Active Aging