Never before have so many people lived for so long. Never before have so many experienced the life changes that are associated with a longer lifespan.
Change becomes a familiar occurrence, and healthy choices are a critical component of successful aging. Living longer and healthier lives requires an integrated, holistic approach linking personal health and home environments. (Because where you live is as important as how you live).
This link becomes more important as we age. When a living environment meets our physical needs, we are more likely to remain healthy and independent; likewise, maintaining good personal health helps us to keep up with the care and maintenance of our living environment.
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Preventive care for both our personal health and home allows us to remain physically active, safe and independent. Pro-active personal health care and home safety measures provide five primary benefits:
- They extend a healthful life
- They reduce the likelihood of physical disability
- They support good mental health and cognitive function
- They lower stress levels that increase the enjoyment of life
- They reduce costs associated with health care and health care facilities
Increasingly, over the last ten years, there has been growing acceptance of the idea that we do not necessarily need to relocate to accommodate shifting needs. We can modify our environment and enhance our wellness by adding supportive services and reconfiguring our residence. Supportive in-home personal health services designed to promote healthy lifestyle choices through physical activity, nutrition and mental engagement coupled with home modification, safety and maintenance services is an effective course for successful, independent aging.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity, even 10 minutes at a time, dispersed throughout the week is one of the most important things we can do for our health. Combining 150 minutes per week of physical activity with muscle-strength training helps us to continue our daily activities without becoming dependent on others. Following MyPyramid guidelines for good nutrition along with the Food Guide Pyramid for Older Adults supports healthy lifestyle choices and reduces the chances of developing many life-shortening chronic diseases. Remaining physically active and socially engaged reinforces better mental health and cognitive function. Evaluating the skills necessary to perform daily living tasks, assessing how the environment matches task performance, and implementing home modification that addresses any incongruence between the person and their environment promotes a safe home environment to minimize home accidents.
Utilizing healthful life strategies with the “whole person” approach allows you to choose from a range of flexible services that fit your specific needs. Take advantage of the opportunity to integrate your personal health and home environment for a longer, safer and more enjoyable life.
Megann Hudson is Outreach Coordinator for Hudson Integrative. This article was originally posted on Linked In on February 11, 2016.
