Healthy Aging

The risk of falls and injuries from falls increases as we age due to loss of bone mass, muscle mass and balance. Balance exercises can lower the risk of falling as well as the risk of injuries. Here are some balance exercises that are helpful for balance training and preventing falls and related injuries.

Having a family member in assisted living can be difficult for everyone involved. People who move into assisted living can struggle with a loss of independence, leaving their home or fears of fewer family visits. Family members of those in assisted living may feel guilt, helplessness and concern.

Music therapy experiences may include singing songs, playing instruments, writing music, or listening to music and analyzing the lyrics. Music therapy interventions can address a variety of health care and educational goals.

Combining the strategies of the Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, the MIND diet revolves around healthy combinations of foods that may help reduce inflammation, hypertension and high blood pressure, and protect against cardiovascular and neurological diseases and signs of aging.

Adults 65 and older need at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, such as walking, but also at least two sessions of strength training a week. Besides moderate exercise and strength training, balance training and exercises are also recommended routinely for older adults.

Chronic kidney disease is a public health crisis that's serious but also preventable. Managing blood pressure and blood sugar are two of the seven ways recommended to keep the kidneys healthy.

Caring for a loved one can be tough. This simple action plan for caregivers can help you get your bearings and make your caregiving role a little easier.

Are you caring for an aging parent? Here's how to approach difficult topics like caregiving and end of life planning.

Contributor Julie Edgar of the AAA 1-B offers advice on how caregivers of older adults can navigate holiday family gatherings to make them fun and manageable.

Blue Zones are all the buzz when it comes to healthy living - and living longer.

Johnny Agar, who competes in triathlons with his dad, is the author of the bestseller, "The Impossible Mile: The Power in Living Life One Step at a Time."

Want to keep moving well as you age? Remember to exercise your joints.

Understanding why seniors are at risk of falling can help individuals, caregivers, friends and families prevent them from happening in the first place.

Can what you eat slow down age-related cognitive decline or early signs of Alzheimer’s?

Should our sun safety practices change as we get older? Here are sun protection tips by age.

Gracefully Greying health correspondent Lila Lazarus explores the health benefits of golf for both the body and the mind.

Reconnecting with an old friend can feel good. You being the one to initiate the contact can be good for both of you.

Brain teasers are not only fun but good mental exercise that supports a variety of cognitive functions.

Make an after-dinner walk part of your routine and you’ll reap the health benefits.

Aging experts say diet, exercise, sleep and social habits play a big role in protecting brain health and preventing mental declines and dementia.

For two hours every Monday afternoon at the Lasky Recreation Center in northeast Detroit, time doesn’t matter – only basketball.

Seniors looking for ways to get fit or maintain their health have plenty of at-home exercises to pick from.

Gracefully Greying health correspondent Lila Lazarus dives into the pickleball craze — and finds it can be good for your health.

It is important for women to get enough information about perimenopause and menopause symptoms and side effects.

Gracefully Greying health correspondent Lila Lazarus tries the cold plunge trend and reports back on results.

Staying active and making new friends: these seniors are reaping the benefits from pickleball, a sport that surged in popularity during the pandemic.

Results from a new study that tracked thousands of people in the U.S. show regular vitamin D use may help prevent dementia.

It’s never too early to think about your brain health. Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, these tips can help keep your mind young.

Going to sleep with tense muscles is not a recipe for good sleep. Here’s how stretching can improve your zzzz’s.

Gracefully Greying health correspondent Lila Lazarus brings a new way to positively impact your health: journaling.

Ask Donna Mc Minn why she took up competitive swimming during her retirement and she’ll grin and say: “In the pool, no one can see you sweat."

If you live at a distance, here are tips for maximizing your caregiver effectiveness – and maintaining your peace of mind.

Exercise is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself at any age, but as you get older, regular exercise becomes more important than ever.

Adding weights and resistance training to your workout can make a big difference in how well you age.

Don’t call it ping pong. This is table tennis. On a recent weekday afternoon several men, aged 50-plus, are breaking a sweat.

Gracefully Greying health correspondent Lila Lazarus shares five unusual health tips that most people don’t know about.

As you get older, it becomes more and more important to keep your bones strong and healthy. Here are simple steps you can take to make a difference.

An annual flu shot is the best way to protect against the flu, but it’s only the first step. This guide should help you conquer flu season.

Good sleep, proper nutrition and these other tips should help keep your immune system performing optimally.

Knowing the signs and types of depression can help older adults get the treatment they need to feel better.

Keep your memory sharp as you get older by incorporating these simple habits into your everyday life.

Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence among older adults but there are many ways to avoid them.

The sun can damage more than just your skin. Follow these tips to pick out the right sunglasses for you, and start protecting your eyes today.

As people get older, it can become difficult for some to keep the lifestyle they want. But there are ways for seniors to preserve much of their independence.

Seniors staying safe by staying at home have lost normal social connections, increasing their risk for isolation and depression. Listen for warning signs.

Certified trainer and mother of three Ann Marie Wakula shows you ways to stay active even when you can’t go to the gym.

Read up on cardiologist Joni Summitt’s tips to help women reduce their risk for heart disease.

Try some of these safe and effective exercises to remain active and well as you age.

Here are a few suggestions for developing the kind of habits that can get you to be more active (and maybe even shed a few pounds along the way!)

Not only do your grandkids bring a smile to your face, but spending time with them also helps improve your mind, body and spirit.

Cycling is growing in popularity among older adults, but biking-related accidents are also on the rise. Here’s how to stay safe on two wheels.

Find out which habits keep residents of Ikaria, a Greek Island, living well into their 90s.

People are living longer, healthier lives. These seniors say finding activities you're passionate about can help you live out your senior years with vigor.

Research points to a variety of ways friendships benefit our well-being. It might be time to give your bestie a call!

Fear, fatigue, chronic pain or just plain lack of motivation might be keeping your loved one stationary. So how do you get them off the couch and on to healthy…

Yoga is a great way to improve your strength, flexibility and mental clarity. Add some of these moves into your day for an easy way to improve your practice.

Spending time in a garden is good for your physical and mental health–you just have to be careful you don’t overdo it.

It’s important for older adults to seek meaningful ways to stay engaged for their mental health. These research-backed ideas can help seniors find purpose.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, caregivers are finding new ways to navigate their daily responsibilities.

“My health is everything. It’s freedom to choose the activities I want to do.”

Dermatologist Dr. Brittany Carter-Snell answers the most common skincare questions and offers us insight on the best practices for maintaining healthy skin.

Caregiving is a unique role that requires patience, discipline and trust. Here are seven tips on how to manage one's new responsibilities.

Alzheimer’s is a common form of dementia. “World Alzheimer’s Month” is an opportunity to learn more about the disease.

Skin care doesn’t have to be complex. In fact, you can easily take care of your skin by changing what you eat.

When you hear about a breast cancer diagnosis, it’s natural to assume it’s a woman who is dealing with the news. But breast cancer can also happen to men.

Aging brings on another major hormonal change for both women and men – and it can start earlier than you think.

In this post from the Area Agency on Aging 1-B, caregivers can learn how their duties can lead to isolation and what they can do to stay connected.

Falls are the number one cause of injuries and deaths from injury among older Americans. Find out how to reduce your risk.

Noticing changes in your vision as you approach middle age? Find out what’s normal and what might be a cause for concern.

For some caregivers, it’s hard to find balance between taking care of yourself and the person you’re caring for. Read up on these tips to protect your time.

Using cosmetics to enhance appearance is extremely common across the United States. One study found 31 percent of people ages 18 to 29 wear makeup everyday.

What are the options when it comes to senior housing? This guest post from the Area Agency on Aging 1-B provides tips and considerations for choosing wisely.

If you’re caring for a loved one, there could be aspects of caregiving that will surprise you. Read on for what to expect and how to cope.

Other than being much harder than it looks, golf is a great source of exercise for all ages. It might be time to pick up that driver and hit the links.

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but is also when we're most vulnerable to the sun's rays, making prolonged exposure dangerous.

As they enter retirement, seniors may struggle with their value or sense of purpose. Here are seven meaningful activities for post-retirement life.

Read our team member's first-hand experience dealing with osteoarthritis at the young age of 32 years old.

Experts from the Area Agency on Aging 1-B share tips on caring for a loved one from afar, including warning signs they might need more help and how to find it.

There is no safe way to tan. The darker skin tone that results from time in a tanning bed or in the sun is caused by cellular damage to the skin.

Adjusting to aging skin in midlife can be trying in a youth-focused society. Read up on accepting your skin at every age and when to see a dermatologist.

Hearing loss affects approximately 20% of Americans. Despite its prevalence, it can be difficult to talk to loved ones about signs of hearing loss.

If you’re north of age 40, retirement planning takes on more financial urgency than it did in your 20s and 30s. Learn strategies to boost your nest egg now.

Due to the unpredictable nature of Parkinson's Disease, it’s imperative to understand the signs and risks associated with the illness.

60 percent of Americans take a prescription drug, so it is important to know how to safely consume, store and dispose of them.

Many people overlook the benefits of a simple walk every day. Read about how walking each day is great for your health!

Worried about an older loved one’s ability to drive? Read up on how to approach this delicate subject with tips from the Area Agency on Aging 1-B.

It’s a bit surprising to learn how much adults’ nutritional needs change during middle age. Learn what you need more and less of as you get older.

Metabolism decreases 1 to 2 percent every decade for women and 5 to 8 percent for men. Exercise can help bridge the gap.

If you have aging parents or are a senior wanting to stay in your home independently, this post from the Area Agency on Aging 1-B is full of helpful tips.

Healthy habits are crucial for your heart during the middle-age decades. Whatever decade you’re in, take some simple steps to show your heart a lot of love.

Wear earbuds at work, the gym or in your car? Here are some trustworthy answers to frequently asked earbud questions to keep your ears healthy.

While depression doesn’t always have a direct cause, there are certain stressors that can trigger depression at different ages. Learn about risk factors.

Worried about an upcoming prostate exam? Don’t be!

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest reproductive cancer for women. Learn about subtle warning signs to pay attention to, as well as factors that could up your risk.

Without even knowing it, your health choices today could impact your vision health later in life. Most eye disorders develop painlessly over time.

Trying to become stronger, leaner or just healthier overall? There’s a workout just right for you.

Carol Holland, 85 and Marion Cowan, 92 are best friends who love to sing and dance onstage through Beyond Belief Senior Theatre in Novi.

An organization called Just Believe is working to spread sunscreen dispensers throughout U.P. communities, in memory of a loved one lost to skin cancer.

Roller skiing provides a unique total-body workout. Strengthening 90 percent of your muscles, this low-impact sport can be enjoyed by many.

The Alzheimer’s Association has many support groups and events for Michiganders impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Rollerblading is not just for kids’ birthday parties anymore! Here’s why you should break out the blades this summer to help you stay fit.

These tips from these older Michigan residents will keep you in shape throughout your senior years.

The number of Americans living with Alzheimer's disease is growing. It's important to understand the disease to detect and provide accurate diagnosis earlier.

Maintaining healthy blood pressure levels is important to reduce the risk of heart disease.

There is a growing market for games that supposedly improve your brain’s function. But before you buy one, there are some things you should know.

Most people don't realize they're in danger of developing type 2 diabetes until it's too late. Learn how to manage this risk to live a happy and healthy life.

Between diet, exercise and the preventive health measures that come with getting older, it’s key to keep your nutrient balance in check.

These tips will help you avoid loneliness as you age.

Another reason to get active outdoors — the world's largest treasure hunt. Read our tips to get started with geocaching.

Curious to know how competitive yoga works? Watch the nation’s best in Grand Rapids during the State Games of America.

Soda and juice are filled with added sugars and calories. Adding great, natural flavor to water with fruit and herbs is a great way to stay hydrated.

Learn about the subtle symptoms of dementia and what to do if you notice them in a loved one.

It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of dehydration and know how to prevent it, especially in elderly individuals who are at a higher risk.

Learn more about the common health disparities affecting males and how to recognize the symptoms.

Nine lifestyle changes to help you blow out the candles at your 100th birthday party.

These days, there are more ways than ever to quit smoking for good. Here’s how to conquer your cravings.

Exercise is important as you age, but you don’t have to over-exert yourself to see results. Here are five ideas for workouts that won’t leave you winded.

While heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults over the age of 65, some simple tweaks to your diet can lower your risk.

Making changes to your diet can help alleviate some of the most bothersome menopause symptoms and elevated risks of entering this stage of life.

Adults can develop an allergy to a food they used to eat with no problem. Recognizing the signs and symptoms is important to controlling the allergy.

New guidelines for treating back pain may have patients reaching for yoga mats instead of pain medications.

Health and happiness start with what’s in your cup! Stay at the top of your game with these simple, tasty tonics.

For seniors living in and around Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, CentraCare is helping them live independently. Find out about available services near you.

Read about why park prescriptions could be coming to a doctor’s office near you.

The Mary Free Bed YMCA near SE Grand Rapids is the first in the world to earn a global universal design certification, which recognizes its accessibility.

One of the easiest ways to boost your activity level is to simply get outside and walk. Activity trackers can help you stay motivated and see progress.

If you find yourself struggling to catch a good number of ZZZs, try a few of these tips.

Retirement is an amazing opportunity to devote yourself to doing something you love—whether it’s a hobby, volunteering or maybe traveling.

Here are four simple ways to keep your mind sharp and put forgetfulness at bay, no matter how many candles are on your birthday cake.

Looking for a great low impact well rounded workout? Then Cycle Bar is the place for you.

Check out our round-up of great health and wellness podcasts to help you stay motivated during your workouts.

Learn how socializing and staying engaged in the community can help older adults improve their physical and mental health.

Doesn’t a nice, long, bubble bath sound amazing right now? Learn how you can spice up your baths and improve your health all at once!

Members of the Michigan Chapter of the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET) gathered in a hotel ballroom to practice a special dance routine.

Our elders know best, right? Athletes of the Michigan Senior Olympics share tips on how we can enter the Olympics, even at age 70.

Exposure to sunshine—and the natural vitamin D that results from that—can improve your physical and mental health. Here’s how.

Your 60s can be the time to find new passions and reconnect with friends. Here’s a checklist to get you started on what may be your best decade yet.

Men’s Health Month is coming to an end, but the challenges faced when it comes to improving health and preventing premature death last all year long.

Diabetes Month is not only about encouraging people with diabetes to better manage their condition, but to educate those who are at high risk for the disease.

It’s time to remind other men in my life to think about better health and routine exams, as well as reflect on my own personal health journey.

Snowbirds take note! Take these steps to ensure your home is safe while you travel south for the winter months.

We created a list of some fun activities to enjoy with your grandchildren around the state of Michigan. Get outside, explore and have a ball!

Working out isn’t just for 20 year olds. Tackle the top myths that might be holding you back from staying fit as you get older.

Every year the Detroit Zoo hosts a senior day, with fun events and free admission for qualifying seniors. This year’s is on September 9th–don’t miss it!

Kids aren’t the only ones who need vaccinations. Check this list to see which shots you might be due for.

For families looking for healthier sunscreen options, here is a customizable, recipe that uses natural ingredients.

The Ride is an annual stationary bike race that benefits heart and vascular programs at Mercy Health Muskegon. Read about a BCBSM-sponsored rider’s experience.

A regular routine of a few quick exercises can help you reduce your back pain without a trip to the doctor.

The Centers for Disease Control urge everyone to get vaccinated against the flu, but this advice is especially important for seniors.

Having good balance is one of those things that gets taken for granted until it goes away. Here’s how to make yours better.

While young, sporty people are embracing wearable technology, older adults are actually the perfect group to use one of these new healthy gadgets.

Many people classify dehydration as a relatively minor issue that can be solved with a tall glass of water. But for older adults, that dry…

Yoga can help reduce joint pain if you pay attention to form. However, always consult with your doctor before trying any of these poses.

Ever wonder why you take your medication when you do?

Forgetfulness is a common complaint among older adults.

Having high cholesterol increases your risk of developing heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.

As you go through life, your body isn’t the only thing that needs exercise – your brain needs it, too!

What’s your excuse for not exercising? Are you sick, out-of-shape, tired or feel like you’re just too old? Think again.

Don’t underestimate how much control you have over how well you age. According to a recent study, the biggest factor in how healthy you are as you get older isn’…

Every 67 seconds, someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer’s and more than 5 million Americans are currently living with the disease. September is World Alzheimer’…

Can you speak up? I can't hear you." You may have heard this when talking with your grandparents or some of the older adults in your life. But did you know…

My grandfather, Jessie McCurtis, was a World War II veteran and Chrysler retiree, with 14 children. Before having his mobility limited by health complications…

You know working out strengthens your muscles, but did you also know that certain exercises can strengthen your bones? The key: The activity has to have a high…

As someone with arthritis, I’m no stranger to individuals wanting to give you advice, showing you the latest article they read, or telling you about their great…

Tis’ the season. Michigan’s fall is swiftly passing by and winter months with colder weather are on the horizon. Falling temperatures can mean a number of…

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, have kidney disease or certain disabilities. Sounds simple, but it can get…

Are you or a loved one looking to enroll in Medicare Advantage? Time is running out to sign up and enrollment ends on Dec. 7. Are you unsure of the difference…

Diabetes is a defect in the body’s ability to convert glucose to energy, which is our main source of fuel. More than 8.3 percent of the adult population in…

Your workforce is getting older and it is important to know these fast facts to adapt.

A favorite quote of mine is, “With age comes wisdom.” I also have a least favorite quote, one that is not as popular as the previous and not nearly as positive…

It is a known fact our bodies change as we get older, but did you know your mouth and teeth also go through changes as we age? However, with proper care of your…

Maintaining your dental health is an important part of ensuring a healthy aging experience.

If you are between the ages of 40 – 65 and exercise on a regular basis, then I want to congratulate you for adding years to your life and life to your years!

As the Win by Losing competition approaches the mid-way point, your questions about health and fitness are starting to come in. While we cannot answer your…

This will be my last blog post, because I’m having a “senior moment.” No, I didn’t forget my ATM PIN, nor find my car keys in the refrigerator cheese drawer.

Recent research shows there’s a relationship between physical exercise and improved memory as we age. The Wall Street Journal health blog recently reported on a…

It’s time for Michigan’s aging baby boomers and older generations to get up and get fit. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s most…

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer kills more women than any other type of cancer except lung cancer. According to the National…

If I'd known I was going to live this long, I would have taken better care of myself." That’s what actor and comedian George Burns, a notorious cigar smoker…

You already know that consuming too much salt combined with an inactive lifestyle leads to heart disease. According to a report in USA Today…

As we age, it’s even more important to be physically active every day. And the common wisdom is to aim for at least 30 minutes five days a week. Some weeks…

The image of senior citizens settling for bridge and bingo isn’t enough for some Michigan seniors. More than 10,000 athletes age 50 and older from across the U.

Have you ever stopped to wonder what you might look like a number of years from now? I guess I never really thought about it until my daughter raised that…

This is a guest post from Lisa Wendt. As the president and chief executive officer of LifeSecure, Lisa is actively involved in long-term care insurance industry…

This is a guest post from Lisa Wendt. As the president and chief executive officer of LifeSecure, Lisa is actively involved in long term care insurance industry…

You’ll have your body for a lifetime. Treat it well so you can enjoy decades of good health.