On May 6, Australians are invited for the first time to come together for National Healthy Ageing Day. The day is to act as a reminder that ageing well isn’t just about later life, it’s about the choices we make every day.
Whether you’re focusing on your own wellbeing, supporting someone else’s, or shaping change in your workplace or community, everyone has a role to play. This year’s theme is ‘Keep doing what matters.’
So, what does healthy ageing look like? You may be glad to know you don’t necessarily have to be ready to run a marathon to embody healthy ageing. It’s the bigger picture about staying connected, active, and engaged in what matters most to you. It’s not so much about doing more but doing what gives your life meaning or encouraging someone else to recognise what theirs is.
For individuals looking to make a start, small actions can make a big difference:
- Stay active: Regular movement supports physical and mental health and can reduce the risk of illness or injury.
- Stay connected: Spending time with others helps prevent loneliness, boosts mood, and supports brain health.
- Try something new: Learning new skills or hobbies keeps your mind sharp and builds confidence.
- Discover assistive tools: Simple aids in the home or garden, like easier to use kitchen chopping knives or garden kneelers can make everyday tasks easier and help maintain independence. Visit this wonderful site that goes the extra mile showing you where to buy them: https://www.liveup.org.au/assistive-products
Tips to start your journey
Getting started on your road to healthy ageing can often be the hardest part. Here are a few more ways to explore introducing healthy changes to your lifestyle.
- Find local activities that match your interests and help you meet like-minded people. Look in your local free community newspaper, regular free publications such as Have a Go News or contact your local council for more information on suitable activities nearby.
- Take this healthy ageing quiz developed by our friends at LiveUp to receive personalised suggestions close to where you live.
- Join an online community to share experiences and learn from others. Search for Facebook interest groups or sites like Senior Planet or National Seniors Australia. Remember to stay safe online by avoiding sharing personal details and being cautious of anyone asking for money or private information.
- Consider volunteering to stay active and connected. Advocare’s Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme connects volunteers and older people who would benefit from a regular social visit in the Perth area (call us on 08 9479 7566).
Ageing well starts with the choices we make today whether it’s for ourselves or the people we work with or support in our workplaces.
All the best with starting your new incentive, no matter how small it might seem, on Australia’s National Healthy Ageing Day!
(Blog inspired by our friendsat LiveUp/iLA: https://www.ilaustralia.org.au/healthy-ageing-day and https://www.ilaustralia.org.au/healthy-ageing-day)
