Physical Activity and Nutrition

Proper nutrition as part of an active, healthy lifestyle is a key to successful aging. An active lifestyle includes some kind of regular physical activity. We feel that when providing information about physical activity or nutrition, it is important to mention both eating better and exercising regularly. Remember that how well you eat and how much or little you exercise now affects not only your present state of health but also later life.

Many factors contribute to a lack of nutritional health in older people. Eating too much or too little, eating alone, taking medications, suffering from chronic diseases or conditions, financial difficulties, and needing assistance with care are just a few examples of what can affect your eating habits. Whether you are a caregiver or an older American it is important to eat foods rich in nutrients and reduce your intake of empty calories.
For more information on eating healthy as well as our nutrition programs, visit the Nutrition section of our website.

Inactivity often increases with age. Surveys show that by age 75, one-in-three men and one-in-two women are not physically active. Physical activity can help older adults prolong their independence and improve their quality of life. It can also improve mood and relieve depression, too. Staying physically active on a regular, permanent basis can help prevent or delay certain diseases (such as some types of cancer, heart disease, or diabetes) and disabilities as people grow older. Regular exercise can even improve management of some diseases and disabilities in older people who already have them.

Check with local churches or synagogues, senior and civic centers, parks, recreation associations, or even local shopping malls for exercise, wellness, or walking programs to help you find an exercise program. You can also call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., EST, or visit http://www.eldercare.gov/ to find aging services in your community.