Staying fit and healthy during your senior years is all about being aware of what steps to take to feel your best. It just so happens that Healthy Aging Month in September coincides with Pain Management Awareness Month, providing us with a great opportunity to share healthy aging tips while spreading the word about pain management.

Get Moving

It’s perfectly natural to slow down a bit as we age, and you may notice that you have less desire to be physically active. Yet, the body requires regular movement to be in its best condition. Finding ways to become more physically active can bring many long-term benefits, especially when it comes to improved mobility and stamina. While you don’t need to work out very intensely, putting in the time for minor exercise with exercise equipment can help keep you limber. Walking is an easy, low-impact activity that can be done indoors or outdoors. Steppers and peddle bikes are helpful for seniors who want an easy-to-do indoor workout. Mobility accessories can help with enhanced ease of mobility.

Eat Healthy

You are what you eat is more than just a catchy slogan. Food plays an important role in how you feel and function. If you eat a lot of fast food packed with calories, for instance, you may notice a feeling of sluggishness. Likewise, eating too much junk food filled with empty calories or processed food with preservatives can interfere with optimal health. Take this opportunity to evaluate your daily diet and make sure you are including recommended amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, fish and lean meats in your diet. Revamp your grocery list to include more of these foods and less of the fat-laden, over-processed items that contribute to obesity and poor health.

Stay Mentally Alert and Upbeat

Even though you can’t see it, your brain is the central control system for your mind and body. It makes sense to give it the same attention you give to being physically fit. Studies show that brain teasers can help with mental function, and you can have fun solving puzzles while helping your mind stay alert and stable. Having a positive mindset is also important for your overall health. Keep the blues at bay by staying in touch with friends, doing fun activities and staying young at heart.

Be Creative

Tap into your creative side. Even if you don’t think you’re creative, there is a spark of creativity in you – you just need to let it shine. If you’ve always wanted to be an artist, now is the time to become one. Or perhaps your inner voice keeps chirping about a certain hobby that you always wanted to take up but didn’t for various reasons. Give yourself the freedom to explore all of the countless ways you can express creativity. Remember, it’s never too late to learn something new and get really good at it.

Learn About Pain Management

Managing pain has become one of the biggest issues facing seniors and for all of September, you can play an active role in the education and promotion of Pain Awareness Month. Spend some time this month learning more about the latest advances in managing pain for conditions such as arthritis, back pain and headaches. Other chronic pain conditions include cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Discuss what you learn with family and friends in person and on any social media platforms you use. You can also make yourself or a loved one more comfortable with pain relief products.