Improving Physical Wellness: How Seniors in East Texas Can Take Control During Physical Wellness Month
Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • April 6, 2023
As an organization dedicated to serving seniors in East Texas, we at the Area Agency on Aging are proud to offer a variety of health and wellness classes to promote physical wellness. During this Physical Wellness Month, we're excited to provide seniors in our community the opportunity to take an active role in their health and fitness.
Our Tai Chi for Arthritis program is one of our most popular classes designed to help seniors manage arthritis pain and improve overall physical function. We're also offering classes on fall prevention, healthy eating, and chronic disease self-management, led by trained instructors who are dedicated to helping seniors take control of their health.
By promoting physical wellness, we believe in helping seniors in East Texas enjoy a happier, healthier life for years to come. We're honored to be a part of this important mission. We encourage seniors in our community to join us in taking steps toward improved physical wellness this April and beyond.
Here are some tips to help seniors in East Texas improve their physical wellness:
- Stay active: Regular physical activity is important for maintaining strength, flexibility, and overall physical function. Even simple activities like walking or gardening can make a big difference in physical wellness.
- Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can provide the nutrients seniors need to maintain good health and energy levels.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining good health, especially as we age.
- Get enough sleep: A good night's sleep is important for physical wellness, helping to restore energy and repair the body.
- Stay socially connected: Social connections are important for mental and physical wellness. Seniors can stay connected with friends and family, join social clubs or groups, or participate in community events.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can have negative effects on physical health. Seniors can take steps to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques or engaging in enjoyable activities.
For more information on AAA's Health and Wellness programs, visit → www.easttexasaaa.org/health-and-wellness
USAging is celebrating 50 years as the national organization that represents Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Title VI Native American Aging Programs. As part of the 50th anniversary, USAging has launched a new public awareness campaign— Area Agencies on Aging: Helping You Live Long and Stay Strong . The goal of this campaign is to make the public aware of AAAs as a vital community resource and to educate consumers about the range of important services that AAAs offer to older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers. There are more than 600 AAAs serving every community across the country ready to help them to age well where most want—at home and in their community. All people hope to enjoy a long and healthy life—but many find that they need a little help as they go through the aging journey. “Research has shown that two-thirds of older adults will need some support to age well at home,” said USAging CEO Sandy Markwood. “But people often don’t know about AAA services or seek them out until they are in crisis—thereby missing the opportunity to connect to the range of services that are available to help them age well.” Services Provided by AAAs For Older Adults: Home-delivered and congregate meals: Nutritious meals at home or in group settings. In-home support: Assistance with daily tasks like bathing, cleaning and dressing. Transportation: Rides to medical appointments, stores and community activities. Health and wellness programs: Fall prevention, chronic disease management fitness classes. Benefits counseling: Help understanding and enrolling in Medicare, Medicaid and more. For Caregivers: Respite care: Short-term relief to prevent burnout. Training and support: Educational tools and support groups for caregivers. Information and referral : Guidance to local programs, services and community resources. “By 2035, older adults are expected to outnumber children under age 18 for the first time in the history of this country,” said Markwood. “By 2040, a full 22 percent of the American population will be 65 years or older. Currently, there are more than 53 million unpaid family caregivers in the United States. There has never been a more crucial time for people to learn about AAAs and the services that are available to them to help them live long and stay strong.” For more information, visit www.usaging.org/livelongstaystrong or connect with your local AAA by contacting the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov .
Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will join organizations nationwide in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM). This month-long observance honors the contributions of seniors in our communities. To mark the occasion, AAA will host and collaborate with local organizations for four special celebration events across East Texas, held at senior centers and community hubs. These events will highlight the importance of connection and the role strong relationships play in maintaining a vibrant, healthy senior population. OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” challenges outdated perceptions and encourages a fresh perspective on aging. It promotes a shift in how society talks about, understands, and supports older adults, empowering communities to embrace aging in a more positive and inclusive way. Join Us for These Community Celebrations! The following OAM events are open to the public and will feature food, entertainment, door prizes, and valuable information about services available to East Texas seniors: 📅 May 7 – Henderson Community Building, 302 Fair Park, Henderson | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM 📅 May 15 – First United Methodist Church, 225 Lovers Ln, Athens | 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM 📅 May 16 – Jefferson Senior Center, 111 W. Broadway, Jefferson | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📅 May 21 – Harrison County Agrilife Extension Office, 2005 Warren Drive, Marshall | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM The AAA advocates for seniors and provides essential services, including benefits counseling, case management, health education, nutrition programs, referrals, and Ombudsman support for those in assisted living. These services promote independence and dignity, helping seniors remain in their communities. For event inquiries, call (903) 218-6500.
