May 19, 2012
We Are Stronger and Healthier Together
It constantly amazes me that the older I get how much more time flies by and how many more flipped pages on a calendar it takes for me to realize that I really am getting up there in years; I don't feel a day or two over 45- except when I pass a mirror, and yet I turn 72 this year.
At any preventive doctors visit they will always weigh you in, check your height, and inevitability the doctor will ask, "how are you feeling", when I jump up on the table with that cheap tissue paper, well shouldn't that be the first clue? I feel great, but my doctor doesn't seem to be listening so I proceed to tell him of all my latest adventures; I can always tell if the doctor is listening to me because he will take a second to look at my medical chart and then look at my chart again to make sure he got my age right.
By encouraging older Americans to get involved and stay active they then become great roll models for the younger generations, who by the way are currently struggling with obesity. By bringing communities together people of all race, gender, and age, can get engaged in this great cause.
Many communities are hosting free bingo nights where seniors can bring a grandchild or friend to play along side them. Events such as wii bowling, painting, dance classes, and even trivia nights are offered. These events get the younger generations involved with the seniors in their community and also allows for learning more about the seniors and their lives.
Many rural areas might not have a full community of support, but that should not stop anyone from hosting a day of play. The Administration on Aging is encouraging Aging Network partners and other organizations around the country to host a Day of Play by planning events using the internet, or sharing stories using social media sites, such as twitter, Facebook, and Google.
There are many recreation centers, gyms, and senior centers who are offering free yoga, zumba, and nutrition information classes. These events are designed to bring older adults together with others in the community to socialize, exercise, and learn more about each other. Unfortunately many aspects of modern-day life keep us busy and isolated most of the day, by participating in a Day of Play; we are bridging the generation gaps between college students, preschoolers, and young adults, and being a part of each other's lives.
Did you know regular exercise also significantly reduces the risk of cognitive impairment for those who participate in moderate or high physical activity? Yes, getting off the couch can be hard, but once you get moving it really can be quite invigorating. Please take my challenge and move your body at least 30 minutes everyday, and I promise you the results you notice in your mind and body will out weigh anything interesting you could find sitting on a couch.
Everyone at the office may agree times are getting tougher; So what is a person supposed to do? Social Service Coordinatorsare the leading health advocates in the nation why not check them out and get a list of free social services for you and your family.
Filed under Medicare by Lina Deri
