Your guide to healthy aging
September 14, 2023
Living Well at Home
Health news, stories of care, and other information to help you live safely and independently at home
When you think about “aging well,” many different ideas may come to mind. Our bodies and minds are complex, and there are many factors to consider as we age.
However, aging well does not have to be complicated. There are many simple steps you can take to set yourself up to age well in your home or community. In recognition of September as Healthy Aging Month, we’ve compiled a guide to help. These basics can be a starting point for your healthy aging journey.
In this checklist, you’ll find the building blocks for planning a future that matches your wishes. If you plan to stay in your home, there are likely steps you can take today to help make that happen. We also discuss the importance of regular healthcare appointments and establishing a healthcare proxy.
Aging well, at home: Tips from a CCA Nurse
Debbie Sylvester is a doctor of nursing practice and nurse practitioner. As director of geriatrics at Commonwealth Care Alliance (CCA), she helps members live well at home as they age. Her guiding principle is that aging is different for everyone. In this article, she shares insights to help older adults to meet their health and wellness goals.
Easy exercises for strength, balance, and mobility
Staying active is important, especially as we get older. Starting an exercise routine may seem daunting. In reality, there are many options, no matter your age and level of ability. We provide suggestions for getting started. Learn which exercises will give you the most benefit and how to stay safe while you exercise.
8 Tips for avoiding slips and falls inside and outside of your home
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury for older adults. We provide tips for making your home safer. We also give advice for reducing risk of a fall when you are out and about. If there is wintry weather where you live, you can also check out these tips for avoiding winter slips and falls.
How to Prepare for Emergencies and Natural Disasters: 3 Important Steps for Older Adults
Emergencies are often scary, challenging, and upsetting. Planning ahead will help you prepare for an unexpected emergency. This is especially important for older adults. Aging individuals are at higher risk of medical complications stemming from an emergency.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and the risk increases as we age. But did you know that about 80 percent of heart disease and stroke are preventable? A healthy diet and exercise can help reduce your risk. If you have already been diagnosed with heart disease, this article also includes strategies for managing your condition.
How to manage your feelings of loneliness
Everyone feels lonely from time to time. However, it’s common for older adults to feel an increasing sense of isolation as they age. This isolation is linked with poor health outcomes. If this sounds familiar, know that there are steps you can take to feel close to people and keep strong connections with your loved ones. Try calling someone when you need to talk, and be sure to keep your doctor updated on how you are feeling.
Navigating health insurance can be confusing, especially if you have recently become eligible for Medicare. CCA has a library of content to help you learn more about what Medicare is, who is eligible, how to apply, and more.
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