Aging Well

No matter how old you are, it's never too early or too late to start taking care of your health. Follow these tips to help you stay healthy, active, and independent.

• Stay physically active. Healthy movement reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, dementia, and falls.

• Eat healthy foods. Eating nutritious food helps keep your bones strong and your heart healthy.
  

• Stop smoking. Quitting tobacco will lower your chances of smoking-related illnesses and death - even if you've been smoking a long time.
  

• Stay social. Staying involved in your community can help improve your emotional well-being.

• See a healthcare provider regularly. Routine check ups can catch health problems early and make sure you're up to date on your vaccinations.

Healthy Aging Resources

• Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long-Term Care | ​360-337-5700

• Healthy Aging | Washington Dept. of Health

• Healthy Aging at Any Age | CDC

• Tips to Boost Your Health as You Age | National Institute of Health

Fall Prevention

One out of four older adults fall each year. Take steps today to help protect your family and yourself from a life-changing fall.

• Keep moving. Improving your balance and gaining muscle can greatly reduce your risk of a fall. Join a class or ask a friend to exercise with you!

  
  

• Talk to your healthcare provider. Certain health conditions and medications can increase your chances of falling. Talk to your healthcare provider about fall risk and prevention.
  

• Keep your home safe. Remove clutter and rugs that you can trip over. Use non-slip mats in your bathtub or shower. Keep rooms brightly lit.

• Get your vision and hearing checked. Poor vision can make it hard to see obstacles or uneven surfaces. Hearing loss can affect your balance and prevent you from noticing hazards.

• Talk to your family. Share ways you can prevent falls together. Check in on your older neighbors. Make healthy habits a priority.

Fall Prevention Resources

• Finding Your Balance | Washington Dept. of Health

• 5 Steps to Prevent Falls Fact Sheet | Washington Dept. of Health

• Older Adult Fall Prevention | CDC

• Falls and Fractures in Older Adults | National Institute of Health

• Falls Prevention | National Council on Aging

Brain Health

Follow these tips to maintain a healthy brain and lower your chances of dementia.

• Work your mind. Learn a new skill, get creative, or put together a puzzle to keep your brain sharp!
  

• Get moving. Movement and exercise raises your heart rate increase the blood flow to your brain. Find a way to move that works for you - maybe gardening, dancing, or bicycling! Make sure to wear protective gear (like a helmet) when necessary.

• Sleep well. Good quality sleep is important to keeping your brain healthy. Stay off screens (like your TV or phone) before bed and minimize disruptions for a restful night.

• Make friends. Talking with friends helps your brain stay active and boosts your mood!

Brain Health Resources

• 10 Ways to Love Your Brain | Alzheimer’s Association

• Healthy Aging, Healthy Brain | CDC

• Brain Health | National Institute of Health

• Dementia Road Map for Family and Care Partners | DSHS

• Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia | Washington Dept. of Health

• Alzheimer's and Dementia | Alzheimer's Association