Boost Your Stamina

Think about getting a gym membership to stay in shape. Physical and aerobic exercises have many benefits. It can help you burn calories, strengthen muscles, increase your energy and self-esteem, and lower your risk of having a heart attack. But there are so many other ways to get a good workout. Put on your comfortable shoes and take a scenic walk or go sightseeing. Or put on your dance shoes. Dancing is an exhilarating cardiovascular exercise that has the added benefit of meeting new people. Want something a bit milder? Try yoga or tai chi and move your body in a mindful, quiet way. You should talk to your physician about creating a wellness program that best suits your health needs.

Challenge Your Mind

Keep your mind as agile as your body and challenge yourself in a new way. Set a goal to read a new book this month or revisit a cherished classic. Or just pick up a Sudoku book, they range in level of difficulty and can be quite addictive. If brain training games are more to your liking, there are several fun and engaging puzzles and games online that can help improve your memory and mental acuity. Touchstone Health has partnered with Lumosity to offer Touchstone Health’s members a variety of brain games that are scientifically designed to increase mental sharpness.

Get Tech Savvy

The Internet has expanded so much and there is so much to explore online. Discover social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or Skype to help you keep in touch with family and friends, or to meet new people with the same interests as you. Perhaps learn a new language or take an online course – in your professional field or a topic of interest – and learn when it’s convenient for you.

An Ounce of Prevention

Remember the old adage, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure?” It couldn’t be truer than when it comes to healthy living. Use this month as your annual reminder to schedule preventative examinations and screenings including vision, hearing, dental, and an annual physical. It’s also recommended that older adults receive an immunization against the flu. Challenge yourself to eat more fruits and vegetables. They are tasty and have numerous health benefits. Have you ever had purple cauliflower? September could be the month to try something new and unusual.

Try Something Bold

Healthy aging doesn’t need to be about exercise, education and personal health alone. Do something new, bold or inspiring. What is that one thing you have always wanted to try but never did? Maybe now is the time to do it! Plan a road trip. Take a cooking class. Go on that dream vacation. Volunteering is great way to develop new skills and to connect with others in your neighborhood. Studies have shown that there is a powerful tie between volunteering and health. Volunteers have lower mortality rates, advanced functional ability and decreased rates of depression. And, it can provide endless enjoyment because you’re giving back to the community.

Healthy Aging Month is a great time to make a few changes. You’ll be glad you did!