As you get older, staying healthy is not just about avoiding illness. It is also about keeping your strength, independence, relationships and everyday quality of life. September's Healthy Ageing Month offers a useful reminder to look at your daily habits and healthcare choices. Small, consistent changes in physical activity, food, sleep and preventive care can support healthier ageing.
What Is Healthy Ageing Month?
Healthy Ageing Awareness Month is observed every September and focuses on encouraging healthy habits and well-being as people age. It is not only about older adults. The US Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion notes that ageing is a gradual, lifelong process, so the habits you build earlier in life can also influence your health later.
The idea is fairly simple: instead of treating ageing as something that begins at a particular age, you can take practical steps throughout life to support your physical, mental and social well-being.
Why Healthy Ageing Matters?
Healthy ageing can help you maintain your quality of life, mobility and independence as you grow older.
It is also about looking beyond physical health. Staying connected with family and friends, pursuing hobbies, learning new things and taking part in meaningful activities can support well-being. The National Institute on Ageing notes that loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks of health problems, including heart disease, depression and cognitive decline.
Tips To Keep Yourself Healthy
You do not need to change your lifestyle completely overnight. Start with a few habits during National Healthy Ageing Month that you can realistically maintain.
- Stay active: If you are aged 65 or above, WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, and also recommends muscle-strengthening activities. If you have poor mobility, balance-focused activity should be included on three or more days a week.
- Choose better food: Build meals around vegetables, fruits, pulses, whole grains, nuts and appropriate sources of protein. WHO recommends that people aged over 10 consume at least 400 grams of fruit and vegetables a day and at least 25 grams of naturally occurring dietary fibre.
- Prioritise sleep: Older adults usually need around 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and discussing persistent sleep problems with a healthcare professional can help.
- Stay socially connected: Make time for friends, family, hobbies, community activities or volunteering. Meaningful activities and social connections can support your sense of purpose and well-being.
Role Of Health Insurance In Overall Health And Wellness
Healthy habits can reduce some health risks, but they cannot eliminate the possibility of illness, injury or hospitalisation. This is where health insurance can provide financial support.
Depending on your policy, health insurance may cover eligible hospitalisation and other specified medical expenses. Some health insurance products also provide preventive health check-up or wellness benefits.
So, when reviewing your parents' health insurance, do not look only at the sum insured. Check the waiting periods, exclusions, co-payment, network hospitals, room-rent limits, renewal terms and any wellness or preventive-care benefits.
Conclusion
National Ageing Month is something you can work towards every day, rather than something you start thinking about after a certain birthday. Use Healthy Ageing Month as a prompt to review your activity, diet, sleep, social connections and healthcare arrangements. Make practical changes you can sustain, and review your health insurance alongside your changing healthcare needs.
FAQ's
1. How much exercise do older adults need?
WHO recommends that adults aged 65 and above get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity. Muscle strengthening is also recommended, while people with poor mobility should include balance-focused activities at least three days a week.
2. What are the best habits for healthy ageing?
Focus on regular physical activity, nutritious food, adequate sleep, social connections and appropriate healthcare. The National Institute on Ageing also recommends staying mentally engaged, managing stress and maintaining regular medical care as part of healthy ageing.
3. What foods support healthy ageing?
Choose a varied diet containing vegetables, fruits, pulses, whole grains, nuts, seeds and suitable protein sources. WHO recommends limiting foods high in unhealthy fats, free sugars and sodium while prioritising a diverse, balanced diet.
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