National Senior Health and Fitness Day

National Senior Health and Fitness Day

The last Wednesday of May is National Senior Health and Fitness Day. Every year, this day is celebrated to acknowledge the importance of health and fitness in seniors’ daily lives. In addition, this special day puts an emphasis on the need for regular physical activity and nutrition among the older adult market. Further, it makes them aware of their current state of health as well as helping them take steps towards improving it. Lastly, wear a blue and green awareness ribbon pin to call attention to physical and mental health awareness.

National Senior Health and Fitness Day is a day to come together and focus on getting seniors more active, healthy, and independent. The event encourages community organizations, health professionals, caregivers, families, and friends to recognize the importance of fitness activities for seniors. For example, whether it’s a healthy cooking class, a group walk in the park or an aerobics class at a local senior center, it all counts!

National Senior Health And Fitness Day is May 31

May seems to be another BUSY month!! Lots to celebrate. This includes Better Speech and Hearing Month, National Nurse’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Memorial Day, just to name a few. While these are all important things to celebrate, don’t forget Senior Health and Fitness Day! Let’s look at ways to honor and celebrate our seniors all month long.

Senior Health and Fitness Day is May 31 in 2023. It is always the last Wednesday in May. The focus of this day is to promote the importance of regular physical activity, especially for older adults. It is also focused on creating awareness around health-related issues that affect the older adult community. So, what are some ways you and your communities can participate?

Get in On the Fun!

• Functional Fitness Testing. Functional fitness testing is an awesome way to establish a baseline for your health and fitness goals. Whether you are looking to have an assessment done, or participate in hosting one for your community, doing so in the month of May is a great way to celebrate physical fitness.
• Throw a Party. What better way to honor our seniors than with a party? Speak with your communities and join forces to celebrate. You can have healthy drinks and snacks, include some fitness challenges, or even have a drawing for a fun prize. The sky is the limit in terms of how you want to do this. The goal is to create a fun event to honor residents.
• Walk Together. Whether you join a walking club or go on a walk with a neighbor or close friend, the benefits of the activity are the same. Get your blood pumping, clear your mind, enjoy some fresh air, and take steps towards a healthier you!

Include the 7 Dimensions of Wellness. Think of ways you can incorporate all 7 dimensions into your programming and offerings.

Don’t remember the dimensions? Here’s a quick reminder:

• Intellectual – Focuses on activities that stimulate the brain (puzzles, games, journaling)
• Social – Emphasizes the importance of social interactions (group events, time with family)
• Spiritual – Finding purpose and meaning in life (meditation, yoga/tai chi)
• Vocational – Utilizing your skills and harnessing your passions (tutoring, volunteering)
• Emotional – Ability to deal with feelings in a positive way (stress management)
• Physical – Caring for the body to stay as independent as possible (exercise, doctor’s appointments, nutrition)
• Environmental – Having a strong connection to the environment (outdoor walks, recycling)