Volunteering, healthy eating and regular exercise will have you feeling younger than your years.

Aging doesn't have to be something you dread. Who puts an age limit on learning new skills, making new friends or meeting personal goals?

September is Healthy Aging Month, the perfect time to take stock of where you are and where you want to be. A combination of physical fitness, good nutrition and social activities can get you off to a good start. We have some steps you can take to help your mind and body feel younger — no matter how many birthdays you have logged.

• Eat your fruits and vegetables: You get a lot of bang for your buck with fruits and vegetables, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. They are low calorie and filling, provide essential vitamins and minerals and can lower your risk of cancer or other diseases.
• Volunteer: Many organizations need volunteers, and getting involved in a cause you believe in benefits your health, too. Research has shown that volunteers age 60 and older actually experience more benefits than younger volunteers. It can increase your life satisfaction, lower depression rates and boost physical health.
• Exercise: Besides burning calories and increasing muscle strength, physical fitness can improve your quality of life. You can develop strength, endurance and flexibility that will help you with daily household tasks, reduce your risk of injury and do what you love — play with your grandchildren, garden or pursue other hobbies.
• Socialize: Stay in touch with your family and friends. Know your neighbors. Get involved in your community. You will build a strong social network and have people to celebrate with or turn to in rough times.
• Learn something new: Exercise your brain. Sign up to take a class in something that has always interested you or a subject that will further your career goals. You'll meet new people and develop new skills.

A healthy lifestyle starts with regular check-ups and health screenings. When was the last time you saw your doctor? Plantation General Hospital can help you find a doctor through our online physician locator. Or you can call Consult-A-Nurse, our free healthcare referral service, at 1-888-256-7724.

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