Friday, April 29, 2016


healthy habits
                                                 FOR A HAPPIER YOU!

Physical Activity and Older Adults



Physical activity is good for us at every age. As we get older, staying active keeps our energy levels higher which means we have the energy to do more of the things we like to do. It improves balance decreasing our risk of falls and injuries that result from falls. Physical activity maintains and improves our strength, improves our mood and can prevent or delay diseases like diabetes, osteoporosis and heart disease.

 

To get the full benefit of physical activity, keep these 4 factors in mind: balance, endurance, flexibility and strength. Almost everyone, at any age, can do some type of physical activity.



The best way to stay physically active is to do the things we already like to do. Ride a bike, go for a walk, or dance to our favorite music. If able, take the stairs as opposed to escalators or elevators. For those who need a buddy to keep them going, sign up for a class or join a gym.  Peer pressure can be just the ticket to ensure we don’t skip that next class. It’s easy to add more activity in our daily routines.

 

From slow movement strength and flexibility classes to a robust Zumba class, Redstone Highlands offers a wide variety of free exercise classes for adults age 55 and better at all three locations.  For those who haven’t been active for a long time or are physically limited due to a chronic illness, Redstone Highlands works with you and your doctor to create a personalized wellness plan specifically for you.

 

For those who want to take an active role in ensuring the quality of their life, now is the right time to increase our physical activity.





Friday, April 15, 2016

Healthy Habits April 2016

healthy habits

National Distracted Driving Awareness Month





April is recognized as National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Distracted driving kills hundreds of people on the road each year. We tend to think that teenagers are the biggest offenders, however, according to the Pew Research Center, that isn’t necessarily the case. Our lives are busy and when we get into our cars we have difficulty changing gears (pun intended). 




Here are some tips to help you be more alert when driving:
·         Put your phone away
·         Make adjustments to your radio before you drive and keep the volume down
·         Secure any loose items in your car
·         If you’re using your phone or GPS for directions, enter your destination before starting your trip
·         Don’t eat, drink or smoke while driving
·         Adjust your seat and mirrors prior to starting out
·         Make sure everyone is buckled up
 
Keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road. Seasoned drivers sometimes take for granted the effort needed to stay focused on road conditions and the actions of other drivers. Limiting unnecessary distractions helps you to be better focused when you’re behind the wheel.