National Wellness Month: Supporting Healthy Aging in Blair, NE
Who says small towns can't offer big adventures? Blair, NE, might be a quaint town, but it offers residents, especially seniors, live music, exciting dining experiences, and plenty of opportunities to stay active. This National Wellness Month, visit Blair and experience an exciting way of life while enjoying local charm.
August is National Wellness Month, a time dedicated to promoting healthy habits and prioritizing self-care. If you're an older adult in Blair, this month is an excellent opportunity to focus on aging well.
That doesn't just mean long-term aging, but making small, everyday choices that impact your mental, physical, and emotional well-being throughout the year.
From fitness opportunities with friends to social groups that help foster new connections, senior health in Blair, NE, has something for everyone.
Why Seniors Need to Focus on Wellness
Emotional wellness aging encompasses more than just getting vaccinated to avoid illness, although that's a crucial component of staying healthy. When seniors focus on wellness, they're maintaining the following:
- Energy
- Independence
- Mindset
These three items are essential to thrive as you age.
Since our bodies change, so do our health needs. Muscles weaken with time, and osteoporosis contributes to fragile bones. Seniors are also more prone to:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- High blood pressure
This doesn't mean you can't take your health into your own hands. When you adopt healthy living habits, you can improve your mobility while boosting your mental acuity.
You can even work to reduce the incidence of disease. When seniors focus on their overall wellness, they may benefit from a stronger sense of purpose and an improved mood.
Active Senior Routines
Wellness habits come in all shapes and sizes, and it's important to choose what works for you. Here are some examples of staying healthy with fun activities and events for all ability levels.
Move Your Body Daily
When you regularly move your body, you work to promote joint health. Moving also reduces stiffness while boosting your mood. You don't have to hit the gym every day -- something as simple as morning Tai Chi or standing during commercial breaks is a great start.
If you enjoy walking, consider joining a local walking group. This is perfect for meeting new friends and staying active with your daily steps, and it's a fun summer activity.
You can stick with it all year long, weather permitting! When it's cold out, consider walking at the mall when it's not busy.
You can also get together with a friend and walk at Black Elk-Neihardt Park. This peaceful location is ideal for getting fresh air while moving your body.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods
As we age, we may feel less thirsty, but this doesn't diminish the need to stay hydrated. Try to drink water throughout the day, or incorporate foods with water, such as:
- Cucumber
- Watermelon
- Zucchini
- Tomatoes
- Strawberries
It's also essential to be mindful of what you eat and make informed choices. Choose meals rich in fruits and vegetables, along with:
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Healthy fats
You can visit the Blair Farmers Market for a wide selection of fresh, seasonal produce. The Farmers Market is open from May to October.
Get Preventive Screenings
Routine health checks are essential for everyone, including seniors interested in assisted living wellness. This healthy aging support is a crucial way of catching concerns early. Be sure to schedule the following:
- Annual physicals
- Dental cleanings
- Vision and hearing exams
Ensure you're up to date with vaccines and have completed all your annual screenings, including mammograms, colonoscopies, and prostate exams. If you're unsure where to start, consider consulting with your physician for guidance or contacting a local senior resource center for assistance.
Take Up a Hobby
Mental health is a vital part of overall wellness, and a hobby is an excellent way to try something new while staying active. You can join a group with a friend or look for online gatherings.
Some hobbies include:
- Painting
- Photography
- Games, such as Chess
- Gardening
- Volunteering
By volunteering in Blair, NE, you're giving back to the community while benefiting from a sense of accomplishment.
If you have a green thumb, consider joining a community garden to lend a hand. You can also plant a garden in your yard. Seniors with limited mobility can benefit from raised garden beds or planters on tables.
Journal or Scrapbook
This is an excellent way of engaging in an enjoyable hobby while focusing on your mental health. Journaling can be as simple as a few sentences a day or concentrating on gratitude. For seniors with limited mobility, consider using text-to-speech apps and journaling on an electronic device, such as a smartphone or computer.
You can craft a scrapbook of memories to keep for yourself or to hand down to a grandchild. The goal is to reflect and have fun in a way that boosts your mental health.
For scrapbooking, you need the following items:
- Scrapbook or blank journal
- Washi tape
- Stickers
- Markers
- Ribbon
- Photos
- Mementos
Don't focus on perfection -- just have fun!
Local Resources That Support Senior Wellness
Blair is a great town for seniors, as it offers community programs that can benefit them. Here are a few organizations to contact:
- Blair Office-Eastern Nebraska Office On Aging
- Senior Life Solutions
- Memorial Community Hospital & Health System (MCH&HS)
You can also discuss your personal wellness goals or any concerns with your doctor. Always consult with your physician before beginning any new exercise program or taking supplements to ensure they're safe.
National Wellness Month in Blair, NE
National Wellness Month is an ideal opportunity for seniors to take the first step toward achieving physical, mental, and emotional wellness. From walking groups to hobbies and connecting with friends, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Wellness Month throughout the year.
Carter Place Senior Living is committed to the well-being of its residents, every day, all day. Your loved one will benefit from a personalized wellness plan that supports the whole person, with everything from engaging activities and special events to meaningful new friendships. Contact us today to discover how residents thrive at Carter Place.