Tips and Resources for Healthy Aging
The average life expectancy in Arizona is 76 years old, and as individuals live longer, the number of older adults in the population is continuously growing. Mental and physical abilities may decline and change how individuals live as they age. Helping the individuals you serve to create and use healthy habits may prevent health problems and help them live longer and healthier lives.
Below are healthy aging tips to provide to your constituents:
Eat and Drink Healthy
- Make healthy choices by including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, and water in their diet.
Staying active
- It is never too late to be active. Being active can prevent, delay, and help manage chronic diseases while improving balance and stamina and reducing the risk of falling. The CDC recommends that older individuals aim for moderate physical activity by walking 20-30 minutes a day, and some muscle-strengthening activities, like taking the stairs or carrying groceries, at least two days a week.
Avoid tobacco
- Tobacco can increase the likelihood of having cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and many other chronic health conditions. For more information about the negative impacts of smoking, check out our previous article here. If the individuals you serve use tobacco, help them take the first step towards quitting by calling 1-800-784-8669 for free help.
Individuals who work in the healthcare field can greatly influence how an individual ages. Helping aging individuals find resources for long-term care can impact their short and long-term health. We have curated some resources to help you create and implement these habits for your constituents:
The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide service that connects older Americans and their caregivers with information on senior services, including Area Agencies on Aging.
Home Health Care includes skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical social services, and home health aide services.
The directory on this site allows for a search of residential facilities by Zip Code or State and does not require personal information.
American Indian and Alaska Native Care
The American Indian and Alaska Native Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Technical Assistance Center works with CMS to provide resources for American Indian and Alaska Native elders and their communities.