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Senior Forum
Healthy Aging Month A Focus on Senior Health
By Beth Richards
Sep 1, 2005, 23:22

Healthy Aging Month is an annual observance month designed to focus national attention on the positive aspects of growing older. The main objective of Healthy Aging Month for 2005 is to encourage local level Healthy Aging events.
Our odds improve as we move through the 21st century. The average American's life expectancy is now 77.2 years, an increase of more than 30 years during the last century. By 2030, the number of 100-year-olds living in the U.S. could climb to more than 300,000, from more than 50,000 today, according to U.S. Census Bureau projections.
But a long life, if it's not a healthy one, is none too appealing. So what's the secret to a long and healthy life? In the book, "The Longevity Code: Your personal prescription for a longer, sweeter life" many of the things we need to do to are common-sense practices that most of us are familiar with:
· Don't smoke
· Don't drink too much
· Eat a healthy diet
· Get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day
· Get regular checkups and screenings
· Wear seat belts and take other safety precautions
But the author says there are three things without which a long and healthy life just wouldn't be possible. They're self-fulfilling attitudes and actions that transform our lives:
· Lifelong learning
· Active involvement
· A hopeful outlook
According to Steve Proctor, Communications Director of the Ohio Department of Aging in Columbus, there are many resources available to seniors who are interested in concentrating on a healthy lifestyle.  In addition to the department's website: www.goldenbuckeye.com Mr. Proctor suggests calling toll-free for NW Ohio information 1-866-243-5678  or the following sources:

Healthy Aging Website:
http://www.healthyaging.net/resources.htm
US Administration on Aging
The AoA is the focal point in the US Department of Health and Human Services for the nation's older adult concerns. The AoA has a network of 670 Area Agencies on Aging, 57 Territorial and State Units on Aging, 270 tribes, and over 27,000 services providers.
National Association of State Units on Aging
NASUA is comprised of 57 state and territorial units. These offices on aging provide consumer information, fund critical nutrition and supportive services, provide elder rights, legal services, outreach, and work to prevent elder abuse.
National Association of Area Agencies on Aging
The 661 N4As plan, develop, and arrange for services to assist older people who are in the greatest need. The N4As contract with 27,000 service provider agencies and public and private groups to provide home and community-based care services.
AARP (American Association of Retired Persons)
AARP is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping older Americans achieve lives of independence, dignity, and purpose. AARP has 32 million members, and 21 state offices.
National Institute on Aging
The NIA is one of the National Institutes of Health, the principal biomedical research agency of the US Government. The NIA promotes healthy aging by conducting and supporting biomedical, social, and behavioral research and public education.
The National Council on the Aging
NCOA conducts research related to healthy aging. Visit their site to found out more about their research and how it can have an impact on our lives.