As we celebrate Healthy Aging Month this September, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the importance of maintaining both physical and mental well-being as we grow older. Healthy Aging Month serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to take charge of our health. By focusing on key areas such as physical activity, nutrition, mental health, and social connections, we can significantly improve our quality of life as we age. This month, we aim to provide valuable insights and practical tips to help ensure quality of life.
Research Findings:
The article “Promoting Healthy Aging: Public Health as a Leader for Reducing Dementia Risk” highlights the critical role of public health in addressing modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Here are some key points:
-
-
- Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, with its prevalence among people aged 65 and older in the U.S. expected to reach nearly 13.8 million by 2060 (Jackson et al., 2023). The disease significantly impairs memory and cognitive functioning, requiring increased assistance with daily activities (Jackson et al., 2023).
- The formal cost of caring for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias in the U.S. is projected to total $345 billion in 2023, with unpaid caregiving by family and friends valued at nearly $339.5 billion in 2022. The total cost is expected to reach around $1 trillion by 2050 (Jackson et al., 2023).
- Women and certain racial and ethnic populations are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Nearly two-thirds of people living with Alzheimer’s in the U.S. are women (Jackson et al., 2023).
- The article emphasizes the importance of public health initiatives in reducing the burden of Alzheimer’s and related dementias by addressing risk factors such as cardiovascular health, physical activity, and cognitive engagement (Jackson et al., 2023).
-
Another article, “The Impact of Physical Activity on Healthy Ageing Trajectories,” investigates the impact of physical activity on healthy aging trajectories using data from eight cohort studies across various countries, including Australia, the USA, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and several European nations (Moreno-Agostino et al., 2020). The study involved 130,521 older adults with an average age of 62.81 years, who were followed for up to 10 years (Moreno-Agostino et al., 2020).
The researchers identified three distinct trajectories of healthy aging (Moreno-Agostino et al., 2020):
-
-
- High Stable: 71.4% of participants started with high health and functioning levels and maintained them over time.
- Low Stable: 25.2% started with low health and functioning levels and remained stable.
- Fast Decline: 3.4% started with high health and functioning levels but experienced a rapid decline.
-
Key Findings:
-
-
- Participants who were physically active had significantly lower odds of being in the low stable group (Moreno-Agostino et al., 2020).
- Physically active participants also had lower odds of experiencing a fast decline in health and functioning (Moreno-Agostino et al., 2020).
- These findings indicate the importance of physical activity to slow health degeneration (Moreno-Agostino et al., 2020).
-
Essential Tips and Insights to Promote Healthy Aging
-
- Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity. Walking, in particular, has multifaceted benefits for older adults. It can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, cognitive impairment, and even improve mental well-being and longevity. Aim for 30 minutes of brisk walking per day, five days a week. Even walking occasionally is better than never (Moreno-Agostino et al., 2020).
- Blue Zones Inspiration: Blue Zones are regions in the world where people live significantly longer and healthier lives. These areas have high concentrations of centenarians and low rates of chronic diseases. The key characteristics of Blue Zones include a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, strong social connections, and stress-reducing practices. Walking is an integral part of their daily lives, contributing significantly to their longevity. Take short walks, enjoy nature, and stay active (Jackson et al., 2023).
- Social Connections: Maintain strong social ties. Connect with friends, family, and community. Social engagement positively impacts mental health and overall well-being (Jackson et al., 2023).
- Nutrition Matters: Prioritize a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Stay hydrated and limit processed foods and sugary drinks (Bojang & Manchana, 2023).
- Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation techniques. Manage stress effectively to support healthy aging (Jackson et al., 2023).
Remember, small lifestyle changes can lead to significant improvements in your health as you age. Let’s embrace the journey and make healthy choices!
References:
Bojang, K. P., & Manchana, V. (2023). Nutrition and healthy aging: A review. *Current Nutrition Reports, 12*(3), 369-375. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-023-00473-0
Jackson, E. M. J., O’Brien, K., McGuire, L. C., Baumgart, M., Gore, J., Brandt, K., Levey, A. I., & Lamont, H. (2023). Promoting healthy aging: Public health as a leader for reducing dementia risk. Public Policy & Aging Report, 33(3), 92-95. https://doi.org/10.1093/ppar/prad011
Moreno-Agostino, D., Daskalopoulou, C., Wu, Y.-T., Koukounari, A., Haro, J. M., Tyrovolas, S., … & Prina, A. M. (2020). The impact of physical activity on healthy ageing trajectories: Evidence from eight cohort studies. *International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 17*(92). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-020-00995-8
Fullscript products:
Integrated Holistic Solutions PLLC offers over 10,000 medical-grade health and wellness items through our online dispensary, FullScript, which can be found at: https://integratedholisticsolutions.com/fullscript/. We are offering 25% off the entire order for all new customers. Some items that promote healthy aging include:
Qualia NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a crucial coenzyme found in every cell of the body. It plays a vital role in energy production, DNA repair, and overall cellular health. NAD+ levels decline with age, leading to reduced cellular function and vitality. Supplements that support NAD+ production and recycling help maintain energy levels, support metabolic processes, and promote healthy aging.
Pure Encapsulations DHEA is an essential hormone in slowing aging and reducing the damaging effects of chronic stress. Other benefits include fighting fat accumulation, increasing energy levels, improving libido, and providing structural support to bones during the aging process.
Designs For Health Whole Body Collagen contains a unique blend of three patented collagen peptides supported by clinical research showing their efficacy for supporting collagen production, bone strength, joint health and integrity, skin elasticity and more. Collagen is a special type of protein that accounts for as much as 30% of the body’s total protein. In particular, it’s a primary structural component of connective tissue, which, in the elderly, can change and negatively impact their joints and movement.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are meant for general use only and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any disease. Any decision to use supplements to support your specific needs should be considered in partnership with your licensed healthcare practitioner.