8/18/09

Healthy Aging

Americans are now living longer.  For seniors to live longer, it is important that they maintain a healthy lifestyle and take some preventive measures.

Living a healthy lifestyle helps protect against the deterioration that is often associated with aging.  Dr. Gary Rull, associate professor of internal medicine at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says it is very important to take responsibility for one’s own health.  He advises individuals to pay attention to lifestyle issues. 

SOUND BITE: “. . . it’s very important in older people to get lots of regular exercise for lots of reasons.  It can help prevent several of the chronic diseases that are more common in older folks, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure and even some cancers.  It can also help them maintain their independence and reduce their risk for falls later in life.”

Dr. Rull says seniors should consult with their physician prior to starting an exercise program.  Nutrition is another key factor in healthy aging.  He recommends eating a balanced diet that includes five servings of fruits and vegetables every day as well as a diet that is low in both cholesterol and sodium.  Maintaining good health in the senior years also requires regular health monitoring and getting the appropriate health screenings.

SOUND BITE: “Recommended screenings include screening for colorectal cancer, breast cancer and cervical cancer in women, although some of those screenings may not be appropriate as a women ages.  Whether or not men should be screened for prostate cancer is something they should discuss with their health care provider.”   

Dr. Rull says it is very important for senior citizens to stay active mentally, socially and physically.  For more information about healthy aging, check with a personal physician, a local senior citizen center or public health department.  Or visit the American Geriatric Society Web site at www.americangeriatrics.org.

This is Ruth Slottag at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.