September 19, 2001

September is Health In Aging Month

BINGHAMTON, NY - If you are old enough to remember when cars had fins or the Beatles first came to America, then you are old enough to think that today stairs are steeper and walkways are longer.

It's a fact that, as we age, most of us gain weight and lose muscle strength and tone. But, that doesn't mean that everyone ages at the same rate. September is Health in Aging Month, when we are reminded that older people who are physically active, eat healthfully, avoid tobacco and alcohol and get regular check-ups can look forward to many years of staying active and independent.

"Physical activity can help the body to maintain, repair and improve itself. When older people are physically active, they maintain higher levels of strength, flexibility and feelings of well-being," said Mr. Charles Wolford, Director of the Broome County Health Department.

"Those who are physically active help protect themselves from many problems often associated with aging, including frailty, loss of appetite and depression. Physical activity also helps seniors to continue to be independent at any age," he said.

The New York State Health Department recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week for a healthy heart and lungs, to maintain muscle strength and tone and to control weight. People of every age find that walking is a safe and effective way to gain the benefits of physical activity. Other easy ways to be active include gardening, dancing, yoga stretching or riding a stationary bicycle.

"Because of the growing awareness of the benefits, many groups, such as your local YMCA, YWCA, health department, senior center and office for the aging offer physical activity programs. Many people find it more enjoyable to participate in physical activity with a partner or group. Walking clubs are particularly popular," he said.

When engaging in physical activity, listen to your body. Brisk walking should make your heart beat faster and your breathing deeper. But, stop if you find yourself panting or feeling nauseous or if you are unable to get your breathing back to normal within about 10 minutes. Older adults should consult with a physician before beginning any new physical activity program.

The State Health Department, through its Five-A-Day program, urges people of all ages to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer and help maintain or lose weight. Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber without the fat and cholesterol contained in other foods. Their high fiber content also helps decrease the risk of constipation. And, adequate calcium consumption can help maintain strong bones. Low-fat dairy products, such as one-percent milk and low-fat yogurt, are great sources of calcium.

"As you get older, alcohol has a greater impact on the liver, kidneys and other vital organs. Drinking alcohol can interfere with medications, reduce your appetite and prevent restful sleep. If you choose to drink alcohol, talk to a health care provider about how much you can drink safely," Mr. Wolford said.

Tobacco at any age causes lung damage and increases the risks for cancer and heart disease. You are never too old to start enjoying the benefits of quitting. Within days after you stop smoking, you reduce your risk of a heart attack. For information about ways to quit smoking, contact the Broome and Tioga P.R.E.V.E.N.T. Coalition at 1.877.276.1019.

"Exercising Your Options" is a list of Broome and Tioga County parks and recreation areas that people of any age can enjoy this autumn. Call the Healthy Living Partnership at 1.877.276.1019 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County, 840 Front Street or United Health Services Stay Healthy Center at the Oakdale Mall for your free copy of "Exercising Your Options".

For more information about physical activity and healthful nutrition, call the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.3944, or write Healthy Aging, Box 2000, Albany, NY 12220.

Older Press Releases are online for archival purposes only. If you need updated information regarding items contained in these press releases please contact the Broome County Executive's office. Thank you.