What does aging well mean to you? Just as each of us are unique, the view of what we think of aging, how we embrace aging or view how we want to age may be different and there is no “right” way. Each May, Central Plains Area Agency celebrates Older Americans Month and urges older adults to live their best life. The theme this year is “Age My Way.”
There are several factors that can influence an individual’s perception of their aging experience including health, financial status and family support. A Yale University study found that those who have a highly positive perception of aging lived 7.5 years longer than those who had a negative view.
Whether that means enhancing your life experiences through lifelong learning or volunteering, home renovations or future planning, exploring travel, embracing wellness activities, or being part of a club or social group – these are all ways to enhance your life and navigate aging well. Ultimately these activities can also add happiness and promote gratitude, which will help you make the most of your life and age your way.
Age My Way can mean many things. Here are a few suggestions:
• Learning a new skill or hobby
• Participating in new experiences or activities you love
• Improving or maintaining your health to ensure you can meet your Age My Way goals.
• Giving back to the community
• Planning for the future
• Creating a unique legacy
This year, Central Plains Area Agency (CPAAA) will celebrate OAM by offering a wellness event from 1-4 p.m. May 24 in the Sunflower Shelter at Sedgwick County Park. There you will find a variety of opportunities such as mini yoga and meditation, fun demos featuring art and healthy food and a select number of companies and organizations focused on overall wellness.
For more information on these events and other services available through Central Plains Area Agency on Aging, visit www.cpaaa.org or call 855-200-2372. And join the CPAAA Facebook page for regular updates.
Monica Cissell is director of information and community services for CPAAA.
