Did you know that September is the month when the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (OASH – bonus points if you knew about this government agency!) recognizes “Healthy Aging Month.” During this month, this agency seeks to promote ways that people can stay healthy while they age. Let’s take some time this quarter to investigate a few ways that Liberty HealthShare members, of all ages, can best care for themselves no matter where they are on the journey of life.
It’s a popular saying that youth is wasted on the young. I say not, because Liberty HealthShare wants all of our members to live at their healthiest and fullest life (even moreso as believers because Christ came to give us life, and life abundantly as He said in John 10:10)! A great first priority for young folks is to be getting enough sleep, as this can aid in all aspects of health.
Second, adolescents should be sure to have physical activity in their daily routines – the differences between young people who are active and young people who aren’t is staggering! Finally, in today’s social landscape, the importance of face-to-face interaction for young folks, and its impact on their development, can’t be understated. Parents, be sure your kids are putting the screens down with regularity as they grow and develop into young adults!
For those in the season of middle age, there’s no need to panic because your best days aren’t behind you! There are some definite strategies that you can implement to keep on aging well. First, make sure that you’re taking care of your diet. I know it can be tempting to eat like a teenage mutant ninja turtle – pizza every night anyone? – but it’s important to be prudent and make sure that you’re eating enough protein, fruits and vegetables, and limiting your processed food intake. Your body, and mind, will thank you!
Secondly, don’t put off those doctor’s appointments. Medical screenings, yearly physicals, and regular bloodwork are all crucial to help you age with confidence. Finally, do some brain games! Sudoku, crosswords, and more can help your brain to be strengthened as you age, keeping you sharp for many years to come!
Gray hair is a crown of glory says Proverbs 16:31! I hate to sound like a broken record, but physical activity is still important in your golden years! Look into some recommended exercise and stay active to reap the benefits in numerous areas of your health. Second, it’s crucial for older folks to know their healthcare options, so be sure to put in some research. Medicare can be great, but your health journey is even better when coupled with the Liberty Assist sharing program!
Finally, find ways to get involved in groups or give back to your community, and this will bolster your spiritual and mental health in old age. It can be easy for the esteemed elderly of our society to become isolated or lonely, but by using these opportunities to say connected and challenged in your twilight years you can ward off the ill effects of isolation!
No matter where you are in life, there are steps that you can take to ensure that you remain on the right, and healthy, path. Liberty HealthShare believes that the young, elderly, and everywhere in between have the freedom to choose the healthcare that’s best for them, and we’re thankful for all those who have chosen to be part of the Liberty HealthShare community – walking the path together where faith and healthcare unite!