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Quick Summary

Healthy aging is not just for older adults — it starts at any age
Small, consistent habits can help you stay physically, mentally, and socially well
Common conditions like arthritis and dementia can be managed with early action and support
Caregivers play a vital role — and they need support too
Evidence-based resources and programs are available to help you thrive

What Is Healthy Aging?

Healthy aging means staying as healthy, active, and independent as possible throughout your life — no matter your age.

In Simple Terms

Healthy aging is about:
- Taking care of your body through movement, nutrition, and rest
- Protecting your brain and mental health
- Staying connected to family, friends, and community
- Managing chronic conditions early and effectively
- Planning ahead for future health needs

Why Start Now?

The choices you make today affect how you feel tomorrow. Whether you are 25, 45, or 75, it is never too early — or too late — to build habits that support lifelong wellness.

Brain Health: Understanding Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is a general term for a decline in memory, thinking, or reasoning that affects daily life. It is not a normal part of aging.

What Is Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia. It causes changes in the brain that lead to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with everyday tasks.

Common Signs to Watch For

Early Signs	Later Signs
Forgetting recent conversations or events	Getting lost in familiar places
Trouble finding the right words	Difficulty managing money or medications
Misplacing items and not being able to retrace steps	Changes in mood, personality, or behavior
Struggling with planning or problem-solving	Needing help with bathing, dressing, or eating

Risk Factors You Can and Cannot Change

Cannot Change	Can Influence
Age (risk increases after 65)	Heart health (blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes)
Family history or genetics	Physical activity and exercise
Certain genes (like APOE-e4)	Healthy eating patterns
	Staying mentally and socially active
	Managing hearing loss and sleep problems

What You Can Do Today

Move your body regularly — aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
Eat a brain-healthy diet (like the Mediterranean or MIND diet)
Stay connected with friends, family, and community
Challenge your brain with learning, puzzles, or new hobbies
Protect your head — wear seatbelts and prevent falls
Manage stress and prioritize quality sleep
See your healthcare provider for regular check-ups

If you or someone you love is experiencing memory changes, talk to a healthcare provider. Early evaluation can help identify causes and plan next steps.

Caregiving: Support for Those Who Care for Others

Who Is a Caregiver?

A caregiver is anyone who provides unpaid help to a family member, friend, or neighbor who needs assistance due to illness, disability, or aging.

Common Caregiving Roles

Helping with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or meals
Managing medications and medical appointments
Providing transportation or running errands
Offering emotional support and companionship
Handling finances or legal matters

Caregiver Self-Care Is Essential

Caring for others can be rewarding — but also demanding. Taking care of yourself helps you care for others better.

Simple Self-Care Strategies

Strategy	Why It Helps
Ask for help	Share tasks with family, friends, or community resources
Take breaks	Even short rests reduce stress and prevent burnout
Stay connected	Talk with others who understand what you are going through
Keep up with your own health	See your provider, take your medicines, and rest when needed
Learn about the condition	Understanding your loved one's needs reduces uncertainty
Set realistic expectations	You cannot do everything — focus on what matters most

Create a Care Plan

A care plan helps organize support and reduce stress. Key elements include:

Health information: Diagnoses, medications, providers, and emergency contacts
Daily routine: Preferred times for meals, medications, activities, and rest
Support network: Who can help with what, and when
Legal and financial documents: Advance directives, powers of attorney, insurance details
Backup plans: What to do if the primary caregiver is unavailable

Free tools and templates are available through CDC's Healthy Brain Initiative and local Area Agencies on Aging.

Resources for Caregivers

CDC Caregiving Resources — Tips, tools, and support links
National Healthy Brain Initiative — Strategies for brain health and dementia support
BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act — Public health actions to address Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's Association — 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
Eldercare Locator — Find local services: 1-800-677-1116

Living Well with Arthritis

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. It is not just one disease — there are more than 100 types, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Who Does It Affect?

About 1 in 4 adults in the United States has arthritis
It can affect people of any age, including children
It is more common in women and in adults over 65
It can limit mobility and affect daily activities — but it can be managed

Five Self-Care Strategies That Work

CDC recommends these evidence-based approaches to manage arthritis symptoms:

1. Stay Active

Physical activity reduces pain, improves mood, and strengthens joints
Start low and go slow — even short walks help
Choose joint-friendly activities: walking, swimming, cycling, tai chi, or water aerobics

2. Protect Your Joints

Use larger, stronger joints for tasks (e.g., push doors with your arm, not your hand)
Avoid positions that strain joints for long periods
Use assistive devices like jar openers, reachers, or ergonomic tools

3. Reach and Maintain a Healthy Weight

Extra weight puts stress on knees, hips, and feet
Losing even 5–10 pounds can reduce pain and improve mobility
Combine healthy eating with regular activity for best results

4. Talk to Your Doctor

Get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan
Ask about pain management options, physical therapy, or medications
Discuss how arthritis may affect other health conditions

5. Join a Self-Management Program

Programs like CDC-recommended Walk With Ease or Chronic Disease Self-Management Program teach practical skills
Available in person and online — many are free or low-cost
Learn from others who understand what you are experiencing

Physical Activity and Arthritis: Safe Ways to Move

Activity Type	Benefits	Tips for Getting Started
Aerobic (walking, swimming, cycling)	Improves heart health, mood, and energy	Start with 10 minutes; build up gradually
Strength training (light weights, resistance bands)	Supports joints and reduces pain	Focus on major muscle groups; 2 days/week
Flexibility (stretching, yoga)	Maintains range of motion and reduces stiffness	Stretch gently after warming up
Balance (tai chi, heel-to-toe walk)	Reduces fall risk and builds confidence	Practice near a stable surface for support

If an activity causes sharp pain or swelling, stop and talk to your provider. Mild discomfort is normal when starting; pain is not.

Programs That Help

CDC-endorsed programs for adults with arthritis include:

Walk With Ease: A 6-week program combining walking, education, and group support
EnhanceFitness: A group exercise class designed for older adults with or without arthritis
Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP): Teaches skills to manage pain, fatigue, and emotions
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program: Low-impact, joint-friendly movement classes

Many programs are offered locally through parks and recreation centers, senior centers, hospitals, or online.

Healthy Aging at Any Age: Simple Habits That Make a Difference

You do not need to change everything at once. Small, consistent steps add up.

Physical Health

Habit	Simple Way to Start
Move your body	Take a 10-minute walk after meals
Eat well	Add one extra serving of vegetables to dinner
Sleep enough	Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily
See your provider	Schedule your annual check-up today
Manage chronic conditions	Take medicines as prescribed; track symptoms

Mental and Brain Health

Habit	Simple Way to Start
Stay mentally active	Try a new recipe, learn a song, or do a puzzle
Manage stress	Practice deep breathing for 2 minutes when overwhelmed
Stay connected	Call or text one friend or family member this week
Protect your hearing	Get a hearing check if you notice changes
Limit alcohol and avoid smoking	Talk to your provider about support if needed

Social and Emotional Well-Being

Habit	Simple Way to Start
Nurture relationships	Share a meal or activity with someone you care about
Give back	Volunteer, mentor, or help a neighbor
Express gratitude	Write down three good things that happened today
Seek help when needed	Talk to a counselor, clergy member, or trusted friend
Plan for the future	Discuss your wishes with loved ones; complete advance directives

How Crestwood General Supports Healthy Aging

At Crestwood General, we believe wellness is a lifelong journey — and we are here to support you at every step.

Services for Patients of All Ages

Preventive care: Annual wellness visits, screenings, and vaccine planning
Chronic condition management: Personalized plans for arthritis, diabetes, heart health, and more
Brain health support: Memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and referrals when needed
Caregiver resources: Guidance on care planning, self-care, and local support services
Lifestyle counseling: Practical advice on nutrition, activity, sleep, and stress management

Programs and Partnerships

Arthritis self-management classes (in-person and virtual)
Walk With Ease and other evidence-based activity programs
Caregiver support groups and educational workshops
Community partnerships to connect patients with transportation, meal services, and social activities

Questions We Can Help Answer

What screenings or vaccines do I need at my age?
How can I stay active with arthritis or joint pain?
What are early signs of memory changes, and when should I seek help?
Where can I find support if I am caring for a loved one?
How do I create a care plan or advance directive?

For Families and Caregivers

We offer:
- Joint appointments to include family members in care discussions
- Resources in multiple languages and formats
- Coordination with social workers, therapists, and community agencies
- Compassionate, respectful care that honors your values and goals

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it too late to start healthy habits if I am older?

No. Research shows that people who start exercising, eating well, or managing stress later in life still see significant benefits. It is never too late to invest in your health.

How do I know if memory changes are normal or a sign of dementia?

Occasional forgetfulness (like misplacing keys) is common. Concerning signs include forgetting recent conversations, getting lost in familiar places, or struggling with tasks you used to do easily. If you are worried, talk to your provider for an evaluation.

Can arthritis be prevented?

While some risk factors (like age or genetics) cannot be changed, you can lower your risk or delay symptoms by staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, protecting joints from injury, and managing other health conditions.

What if I cannot afford programs or healthy food?

Many evidence-based programs are free or low-cost through local health departments, senior centers, or nonprofits. Ask your provider or contact your Area Agency on Aging for resources. Food assistance programs like SNAP or senior meal services may also help.

How can I support a loved one with dementia without burning out?

Learn about the disease to set realistic expectations
Accept help from others — make a list of tasks people can do
Join a caregiver support group (online or in person)
Schedule regular breaks for yourself
Talk to your provider about respite care options

Where can I find local healthy aging resources?

Start with:
- Your healthcare provider or local health department
- Area Agency on Aging (find yours at eldercare.acl.gov)
- CDC's Healthy Aging Resource Center
- Community centers, libraries, or faith-based organizations

Take One Step Today

Healthy aging is built one choice at a time. You do not need to do everything at once.

Try One of These Today

Take a 10-minute walk
Call a friend or family member
Write down one thing you are grateful for
Schedule your next preventive care visit
Learn one new fact about brain health or arthritis

We Are Here to Help

At Crestwood General, we partner with you to support your health goals — at any age.

Visit crestwoodgeneral.com to:
- Schedule a wellness visit or consultation
- Download free guides on arthritis management, brain health, or caregiving
- Find local programs and support services
- Sign up for age-specific health tips and reminders

Your health. Your journey. Your strength.

Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.