“Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” Betty Friedan

Throughout our young lives, we fear aging. No one hopes for wrinkles. Nobody likes watching memories fade. But whether or not we want to grow old, we must.

While we have to age, we don’t have to do so unhealthily. Each September, Americans celebrate Healthy Aging Month — a national observance meant to promote healthy aging. According to the initiative’s website, “The main objective of Healthy Aging Month is to encourage local level Healthy Aging events that promote taking personal responsibility for one’s health… be it physically, socially, mentally or financially.”

To help spread the word about Healthy Aging Month, HealthyAging.net suggests the following:

• Organizing a Healthy Aging Walk-a-Thon
• Giving away Healthy Aging materials
• Plan an older adult reading night at your library

Will you promote healthy aging this September?