Ten tips from SCAN Health Plan to help protect your health as you age

Sep 15 2009

The average life expectancy has topped 78 years, giving people more reasons to celebrate and seek ways to protect or improve their health. In recognition of Healthy Aging Month in September, SCAN Health Plan Arizona takes an in-depth look at healthy aging -- mentally and physically -- during television and radio programs this month and offers 10 tips to better health.

ABC 15's "Sonoran Living" segment on Sept. 23 at 9 a.m. will feature Dr. Marc Lato, medical director for SCAN Health Plan Arizona, and Dr. Walter Nieri discussing ways seniors can protect their physical health in their 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond. On the KOY-1230AM "Senior Focus" program on Sept. 26 at 7:30 a.m., SCAN President Tom Lescault will interview Dr. Lana Peterson from Life Span Behavioral Health on healthy mental aging.

In addition to these programs, SCAN offers 10 ways to help protect your health as you age:

1. Do something just for fun.
2. Drink four to six glasses of water every day.
3. Drink little or no alcohol.
4. Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits each day.
5. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise, even just walking.
6. Limit the amount of salt you eat.
7. Provide care to another person, a pet or a garden.
8. Sleep at least eight hours each night.
9. Take prescriptions correctly.
10. Avoid tobacco products.

"With our focus on independent and healthy living for seniors, we hope to help people keep the 'shine' on their golden years," said Lescault. "Sometimes the simplest steps can make a lasting and positive impact, which is why we wanted to share these ideas to help you protect your health."

As part of an ongoing commitment to improving the lives of seniors, SCAN Health Plan Arizona is an exclusive sponsor of "Healthy Tips for Successful Aging" with ABC 15 and is the exclusive studio sponsor for KOY radio, which began broadcasting from SCAN Health Plan Studios in July.

Source: http://www.scanhealthplan.com