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11/Jul/2009

Enjoy Living Longer

Free Health and Wellness Guide
Promotes Better Living for Seniors

By William Freshwater

Homewatch Care Givers
 
By the year 2030 senior citizens (those age 65 and older) will account for 20 percent of the American population, according to the National Council on Aging.  Advances in medicine have increased longevity.  Average Americans in the 21st century will live 30 years longer than people in the 20th century.
 
Unfortunately, the increase in life-span also poses many health problems for seniors including bone and muscle deterioration, decrease in physical and mental exercise, being nutritionally insufficient in several key nutrients, as well as lack of social interactions.
 
The National Institute on Aging reports that regular exercise and physical activity can reduce the risk of developing some diseases and disabilities that develop as people grow older. Exercise can also be an effective treatment for many chronic conditions, and it helps reduce weight-related diseases. When performed properly and under the correct supervision, exercise can help improve cardiovascular fitness, reduce the frequency of age-related illness, improve brain function, decreases depression, and if seniors are encouraged to focus on exercise, they improve their quality of living.
 
  Studies show that senior citizens benefit more from exercise and proper nutrition than any other age group. This is why seniors and their caregivers should focus on the important aspects of healthy living to achieve further independence and greater mobility – meaning seniors can be physically fit, socially involved and living in their own homes - where they are the happiest.
 
There is a new Guide to Senior Health and Wellness that is available free to promote healthy and active lifestyles for seniors and their caregivers. The guide includes insight along with tips and advice on nutrition, exercise, social involvement and mental health.

The Guide to Senior Health and Wellness that focuses on all the key elements necessary for healthy senior living is available from Homewatch Care Givers in Baton Rouge at 246-8537 or by faxing a request to 246-8821.