Healthy Aging

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Stay Healthy at Any Age

A healthy lifestyle is key to healthy aging. These actions can help you stay healthy:

  • Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  • Be physically active.
  • If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
  • Don't smoke.
  • Keep up with health screenings, like blood pressure screenings, and vaccines, like the flu shot.

If you live with a chronic illness, talk to your doctor about ways to manage your illness and live a healthy life.


Reduce Your Risk of Falls

As you get older, a fall can be a serious and costly threat to your health. Fortunately, falls can be prevented.

Stay physically active:
physical activity can improve your strength and balance. Talk to your doctor about the best kind of physical activity for you.

Have your vision checked:
poor vision can increase your risk of falls.

Make your home safer:
keep your floors and stairs well-lit and clear of objects you could trip on.

Manage Your Medications

  • Keep a list of your medications, including non-prescription medications, and review it with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist at every visit.
  • Always take your medications as prescribed.
  • Ask if any of your medications, or medication combinations, increases your risk of falling.

Questions?

The Poison Control Center can answer questions about medications. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Calls are free and confidential.

Call 212-POISONS.

Stay Socially Active

Spending time with others can improve your mental and physical health.

  • Take a free or discounted class at a library or NYC college.
  • Attend an exercise class or discussion group at a senior center.
  • Volunteer in your community.

Need help getting around?

The MTA offers reduced subway fares for New Yorkers 65 and older.
Access-A-Ride provides transportation for New Yorkers with disabilities.
Visit nyc.gov/dfta to learn about other senior services and programs.

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