Did you know 85% of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, which can cause disability, and loss of quality of life and independence, according to the Alliance for Aging Research? September is Healthy Aging Month which promotes ways that people can stay healthy as they age.
The earlier we commit to living a healthy lifestyle, the greater opportunity we will have to thrive as we age which is particularly important for the limb loss and limb difference community. Just because you were born with a limb difference or have undergone an amputation doesn’t mean you can’t live independently and still do what you like to do. Having and maintaining good health at any age is the key.
As the Alliance emphasizes, prevention is critical to healthy aging. Living a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, nutritious diet, and regular preventative screenings and visits can help you avoid disease. Learn more about how physical activity can help older adults stay healthy with the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion’s Move Your Way materials.
Also, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, outdated expectations and myths about aging can negatively impact older adults and communities. Combating these misconceptions will enable more people to live healthier lives for a longer period of time.
Learn more about the Alliance for Aging Research which works with patients, federal agencies, and others to advance policies that support research and healthy aging. View their list of advocacy topics, and find out how you can get involved.