by Brooke Carbo
September is National Healthy Aging Month, and UAB Employee Wellness is celebrating by offering tips to help you age gracefully.
Healthy aging is not just about living longer, says UAB Employee Wellness Specialist Emily Marszalek — it’s about living better.
“By focusing on key areas of your health, you can enhance your quality of life and enjoy a vibrant, active life well into your golden years,” Marszalek said.
Here are some essential tips UAB Employee Wellness staff recommend to support you on your journey toward a healthier, happier you at every age.
1. Challenge Your Brain
Keep your mind active by learning new skills, solving puzzles and engaging in intellectually stimulating activities like reading or taking a class. These activities challenge your brain in unique ways, improving brain function and delaying mental decline.
Try this: Start learning a new language or pick up a musical instrument you’ve always wished you could play.
Benefits:
- Better memory and recall
- Improves problem solving
- Slows cognitive decline
2. Protect Your Skin
Protecting your skin from damage is crucial at any age, but especially as you get older, if you want to avoid premature aging, dryness and skin cancer.
Try this: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day — even on cloudy days, moisturize your skin regularly, and avoid excessive sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
Benefits:
- Prevents wrinkles and promotes elasticity
- Reduces the risk of skin cancer
- Keeps skin hydrated and glowing
3. Stay Social
It can be hard to prioritize quality time with friends and loved ones in the chaos of everyday life, but maintaining social connections as you age is important for your emotional wellbeing and cognitive health.
Try this: Pick a reoccurring day and time to connect, whether in person or virtually, that works for you and your friends. Treat it like an appointment you cannot miss.
Benefits:
- Reduces feelings of loneliness and depression
- Improves memory and cognitive function
- Provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment
4. Get a Checkup
Being proactive with regular medical checkups helps you monitor your health and catch potential issues early, while they are easier to treat and before they affect your quality of life.
Try this: Schedule an annual wellness exam to keep up with routine screenings like blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests and cancer screenings. Be sure to discuss any changes in your health with your doctor.
Benefits:
- Early detection of health issues
- Better management of chronic conditions
- Peace of mind
5. Get Moving
Staying active can get harder with age for any number of reasons, from health issues to simply a lack of time. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining your mobility, strength and heart health as you age.
Try this: Incorporate low-impact exercises like walking, swimming or yoga into your routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Benefits:
- Improves cardiovascular health
- Enhances balance and flexibility
- Boosts mood and energy levels
6. Eat a Balanced Diet
A nutrient-rich diet consisting of a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains is crucial for aging healthily on several fronts — from how your body functions and fights off disease to how much energy you have.
Try this: Try incorporating leafy greens like spinach or kale into your daily meals and opt for lean proteins such as fish, chicken and legumes. And remember to stay hydrated!
Benefits:
- Supports digestive health
- Reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes
- Enhances energy level and overall vitality
7. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Getting enough quality sleep is vital for maintaining mental and physical health as you age. It is recommended adults maintain a consistent sleep schedule and aim for between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.
Try this: Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading a book or practicing deep breathing exercises, to help you unwind and prepare for sleep.
Benefits:
- Improves memory and concentration
- Boosts mood and emotional wellbeing
- Strengthens the immune system
8. Practice Relaxation
Regular relaxation reduces stress and improves your overall wellbeing. Practices such as meditation, listening to soothing music or even making time for a favorite hobby can help calm the mind and body and promote relaxation.
Try this: Set aside 10-15 minutes each day to practice meditation, deep breathing exercises, gentle stretching or other relaxation techniques.
Benefits:
- Lowers blood pressure and reduces anxiety
- Improves sleep quality
- Enhances overall mental and emotional health
