What is Healthy Aging? 

Aging is a natural part of life, but how we age is something we can influence. This week, we’re kicking off our four-part series on Healthy Aging, where we’ll explore how small, intentional choices can help us live longer, feel better, and stay connected as we grow older. 

Healthy aging isn’t about avoiding wrinkles or pretending we’re not getting older. It’s about thriving at every stage of life- physically, mentally, and emotionally. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), healthy aging involves maintaining physical, mental, and social well-being and independence as you age.

In other words, healthy aging is about more than just living longer; it’s about living better. It means staying active, engaged, and independent for as long as possible, and making choices that support your overall well-being. 

Busting Common Myths 

Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions: 

• Myth: Older adults can’t learn new things. 
• Truth: People can continue to learn, form new memories, and enhance their abilities at any age- our brains remain adaptable throughout life. 
  
  
• Myth: Healthy aging is only about physical health. 
• Truth: Mental, emotional, and social well-being are just as important as physical fitness.  

• Myth: Slowing down is just a natural part of getting older. 
• Truth: While some physical changes are normal, staying active and engaged can help older adults maintain energy, mobility, and independence well into later life. 

The Four Pillars of Healthy Aging  

Over the next few weeks, we’ll explore these four key areas: 

1. Nutrition: Fueling your body with the right foods to support energy, immunity, and brain health. 
2. Movement: Staying active to maintain strength, flexibility, and mobility. 
3. Mental Wellness: Managing stress, staying mentally sharp, and nurturing emotional health. 
4. Social Connection: Building and maintaining meaningful relationships to combat loneliness and boost happiness. 

This Week’s Mini-Challenge: Start with One Small Step 

Healthy aging starts with awareness and action. This week, take a few minutes to reflect- 

• What am I already doing to support my health? 
• What’s one small change I could make this week? 

Try drinking one extra glass of water each day; taking a 10-minute walk after lunch; calling a friend or family member; or journaling for 5 minutes before bed. Write it down, share it with a friend, or post it somewhere visible. Small steps lead to big results.  

Explore additional resources:  

National Institute on Aging: 10 Common Misconceptions About Aging

National Institute on Aging: What Do We Know About Healthy Aging