Insights

Tamara Tiethoff
Life Enrichment Coordinator
Meadowlark Retirement Village

Watch the 13 on Your Side Senior Wellness segment on this topic.

Healthy Aging Month started when the baby boomers were about to turn 50 years old and there was a large negative stigma attached to growing old. Healthy Aging Month is in its second decade and still working to improve physical, mental, social, and financial well-being. Growing old is a part of life we cannot deny, and it is everyone’s job to turn the stigma around.

With the knowledge that aging is inevitable, the goal of healthy aging month is to change the mindset of individuals to think more positively about growing old as well as encourage them to take personal responsibility for their health and overall well-being.

Staying Physically Healthy

 “Take Care of your Body. It’s the only place you have to live.” ~ Jim Rohn

As cliché as it may sound, taking care of your body is crucial to maintain your physical well-being. Some ways to do this are listed below.

• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day– Any bit of movement or exercise is better than none.
• Eat healthy– This is not all about eating your fruits and veggies but about watching your portion sizes and only eating until you are full as well.
• Get enough sleep– Every person needs a different amount of sleep. Find out how much sleep you need personally and aim to achieve that amount every night.
• Have good hygiene
• Stay Hydrated

Staying Mentally Healthy

“Happiness doesn’t depend on any external conditions; it is governed by our mental attitude.” ~ Dale Carnegie

Make it your mission to always have a good attitude. The only person you have the control to change is yourself. Some ways to do this are listed below.

• Control your reactions – Make a conscious effort to not jump on the defense when things don’t go your way.
• Stay focused – Never stop making goals and putting the plans into place to achieve them.
• Recognize achievements – Don’t be so quick to dismiss even your smallest achievements, you have to start somewhere.
• Relax and take alone time – Prioritize self-care and realize that you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Staying Socially Healthy

“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: “What!  You too? I thought I was the only one.” ~C.S. Lewis

• Don’t bottle up your emotions – Keep people in your life that you feel comfortable talking to. Ask for help when needed.
• Try something new – Never be afraid to try something new and step out of your comfort zone, you never know where it may lead.
• Speak Up– Acknowledge your frustration constructively; write or talk about it.
• Volunteer– Give to others and you will be giving to yourself.
• Remember you are never alone– Everyone goes through trials, it is how we react that sets us apart.

 Challenge Yourself this September

• Call up an old friend
• Sign up for a class
• Set a new goal
• Smile More
• Be Positive

Aging is inevitable. Good or bad, we have no control over the cards we are dealt throughout life. What we do have control over though is our attitude and how we embrace the process. The more positive we are, the easier life will be for both us, and the people around us.

• Stay Thankful
• Count Your Blessings
• Accept the Things You Cannot Change
• Live in The Moment
• Take Things One Day at a Time
• Remember “You are only as old as you feel!”

About Meadowlark Retirement Village

Live the good life in a small town

Residents of Meadowlark enjoy living in a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Plus, with completely maintenance-free apartments, and just the right level of services, activities and amenities, residents are free to truly enjoy their retirement. Meadowlark is located in Sparta, and also offers on-site assisted living and a secure environment for memory care should it ever be needed, for complete security and peace of mind.

Meadowlark Retirement Village has been completely renovated to support a new innovative approach to resident-centered care. The Household model of care features three different households, each complete with a kitchen, living room and dining room for residents in independent living, assisted living and secure memory care.

To learn more or schedule a tour, please call 616-887-8891.