Aging well doesn't mean simply living longer; it means staying healthy and active so that you can continue doing what you love for as long as possible, says the American Geriatrics Society's (AGS') Foundation for Health in Aging (FHA) in a recent press release. Now, a growing body of research suggests that the key to healthy aging is in our hands, and tells us that it's never too late to make the vital lifestyle changes that will help ensure a longer, more vibrant life.

To help older adults and their loved ones discover what they need to do to live well for as long as possible, the FHA has published an easy to understand health "tip sheet"-- "Ten Top Tips for Aging Well."

"Adopting healthy lifestyle practices, even when you're older, can have an enormous impact on how well you'll age," says Cheryl Phillips, MD, AGSF. "Maintaining these practices is essential for living a higher quality, more independent life."

The FHA tip sheet for healthy aging includes these three key strategies: Eat a colorful, nutrient rich diet; exercise safely to stay physically strong and mentally alert; and keep your mind sharp with games and activities. The tip sheet also offers advice on how to get the most from your visits to healthcare professionals, including must-have vaccines, reviewing all medications and supplements with your doctor to guard against complications, and discussing any feelings of sadness, loss of appetite, or anxiety. Knowing how to enjoy safe sex, how much alcohol is safe to drink, and how much shut eye you need every night, is also addressed in the tip sheet.

To access “Ten Top Tips for Aging Well,” visit http://www.healthinaging.org/public_education/aging_well_tips.php.