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September is Healthy Aging Month
Celebrate a Vibrant, Active Life at Every Age
September is Healthy Aging Month, a national observance designed to spotlight the positive aspects of growing older and to encourage people to take control of their well-being—physically, socially, mentally, and financially. Founded over 25 years ago by Carolyn Worthington, editor-in-chief of Healthy Aging® Magazine, this awareness campaign is all about reinforcing the message that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself or make healthy lifestyle changes.
Why Healthy Aging Matters
With Americans living longer than ever, focusing on healthy aging is key to maintaining quality of life. According to the CDC, by 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be 65 or older. That makes healthy habits in midlife and beyond critical for staying independent and active well into our golden years.
Tips for Healthy Aging
Here are some practical, research-backed tips for aging well:
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Stay physically active
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, plus muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week. Walking, yoga, swimming, or dancing are great low-impact options. -
Prioritize nutrition
Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit added sugars and sodium. Hydration is just as important—especially as we age. -
Nurture your mental health
Engage in mentally stimulating activities like reading, puzzles, or learning a new skill. Social interaction is also crucial—loneliness and isolation can have major health impacts. -
Get regular health screenings
Stay up to date on preventive care like cholesterol checks, cancer screenings, eye exams, and hearing tests. -
Sleep well
Older adults should aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night. A calming bedtime routine and limiting screen time can help improve sleep quality. -
Avoid harmful habits
Quit smoking, moderate alcohol intake, and manage stress levels through meditation, deep breathing, or journaling.
Helpful Resources
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Healthy Aging® Magazine – The original creators of Healthy Aging Month, this site offers articles, expert advice, and inspiration.
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National Institute on Aging – A comprehensive source for research-based tips on health, caregiving, and age-related conditions.
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MyPlate for Older Adults – Nutrition advice tailored specifically for aging bodies, developed by Tufts University.
In addition, here are a couple videos that expand on this important topic:
Watch the audio description version of Tips for Getting Motivated on YouTube.
Watch the audio description version of Tips for Busy Days on YouTube.
FamilyCare Medical Group Is Here to Help!
Additionally, never forget that FCMG is here to help ensure your golden years are your best years!
Committed to exceptional, family-focused care — provided by over 60 physicians, 40 nurse practitioners and physician assistants, and 28 locations across our region — FCMG is uniquely situated to care for seniors. Our comprehensive range of services includes:
• General family care & internal medicine
• Endocrinology, including diabetes testing, care and education
• Sleep lab and treatment of sleep disorders
• Physical medicine and rehabilitation
• Nutrition
• Among many others
If you are over 55 years of age — and you have questions and concerns about some aspect of your health, OR it's been a long time since you've had your annual check-up — we hope you will reach out to your FCMG provider today!