Twin concerns, both of equal weight for aging persons: staying healthy and addressing or minimizing the high cost of healthcare. We all know the basic instructions for health maintenance: get exercise and eat right. Yet in older individuals, this may require a greater degree of commitment as our bodies change. Nutritional requirements are different for older bodies, and chronic conditions may place increasing demands on our energy. However there are excellent wellness and fitness opportunities in southern Arizona. In addition to feeling better, your mental health will benefit. The important thing is to get going.
Fitness and exercise
Regular exercise is the key to maintaining health, vitality and vigor throughout the lifespan.
Links to local fitness & exercise classes:
City of Tucson Parks & Recreation
Pima County Parks and Recreation
The Tucson Senior Olympics, for adults age 50 and older, are held locally every January.
Tucson Medical Center Senior Services
TMC Senior Services "Healthy Living Connections" programming includes a health information center, classes and lectures on health topics, health screenings, consultations by trained volunteer health coaches, and more.
Tucson OASIS
OASIS is national nonprofit educational organization that serves more than 16,000 members in the Tucson area, with programs to foster lifelong learning, healthy aging and fulfilling community service. Membership in OASIS is free and open to anyone age 50 or older.
Nutrition
Nutritional needs also change as we grow older. Eating well supports mental functioning, emotional balance, energy levels and outlook.
What is Healthy Eating?
(from NIH News in Health)
Nutrition for Seniors - National Institutes of Health
PCOA Congregate Meal Sites Twelve centers throughout Tucson and Pima County offer nutritious meals, a place where older adults can dine with others, and social, recreational, and educational activities.
Home Delivered Meals
Living with a Chronic Illness
It is estimated that by age 50 almost 50% of us will be living with a chronic illness. Living with diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, depression, HIV or cancer certainly can impact our quality of life. Finding and using supportive resources is essential to well-being.
Arizona Living Well
PCOA in partnership with Pima County Health Dept., Public Health Nurses, & City of Tucson Parks & Recreation, sponsors 3 evidence-based personal health promotion programs for adults 60 years & older. |
