Fond Du Lac Times

As September marks Healthy Aging Month, the focus turns to how individuals can maintain health and well-being as they grow older. The idea that aging must be associated with decline is being challenged by experts who emphasize the importance of daily habits in shaping the experience of aging.

Key areas highlighted for healthy aging include regular exercise, which helps maintain strength and mobility; a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins; quality sleep for recovery and mental clarity; mental stimulation through activities like reading or learning new skills; and maintaining social connections to reduce isolation.

Healthcare professionals stress the importance of regular checkups with a primary care provider (PCP) as people age. These visits are crucial for early detection of health issues and ongoing preventive care such as screenings, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. For those without a PCP, Watertown Regional Medical Center offers resources to help find a suitable provider.

Carolyn Worthington, founder of Healthy Aging Month, encourages embracing change at any stage in life: “Who says you can’t do something wildly different from anything you’ve done before? Only that person you see in the mirror.”

Healthy Aging Month serves as a reminder to prioritize these practices not just in September but throughout the year, allowing for more fulfilling experiences later in life.