Behaviors and Longevity

Preventive medicine can go a long way in helping seniors live longer and healthier lives. Working on just a few habits can make a real difference.

• Stop smoking
• Exercise to keep body strong
• Nourish yourself with proper nutrition
• Involve yourself and family members in your health care
• Do follow doctors orders and practice preventive maintenance
• Stimulate your brain
• Sleep to rejuvenate
• Lose weight (if you need to)
• Ensure good vision and hearing with regular exams

Adapted from Tedd Mitchell M.D.

Vision Health

Prevent Blindness America has been the nation's leading volunteer eye health and safety organization with the sole mission of preventing blindness and preserving sight. Through its toll- free line and web site this organization provides information on eye diseases and referrals to support groups.

Elderhostel-Travel and Education

Discover more than 8,000 learning adventures in all 50 states and more than 90 countries abroad. Elderhostel offers in-depth and behind-the-scenes learning experiences for almost every interest and ability. History, culture, nature, music, outdoor activities such as walking and biking, individual skills, crafts, study cruises: Enjoy these and many more with the not-for-profit leader in educational travel.

SPOP-Service Program for Older People

SPOP is a leading provider of mental health and related services for older adults. Services include counseling, substance abuse, adult day center, services for the seriously and persistently mentally ill, bereavement support, government entitlements, insurance benefits, education, and training. To find out more about SPOP programs and services contact 212-787-7120.

Medicare Rights Center

Medicare Rights Center (MRC) is the largest independent source of health care information and assistance in the United States for people with Medicare. Founded in 1989, MRC helps older adults and people with disabilities get good, affordable health care. They can be reached by phone at 212-869-3850.

Tools for healthier lives

Mayo Clinic tools for healthier lives sponsors this website packed with useful information about conditions, treatments, drugs, healthy living, and much much more.

Journal Keepers

Journal keepers describes materials available to help elders create memory journals, written and artistic accounts of favorite memories form their lives. Constructing a memory journal can be an important asset in helping elders who are experiencing memory problems to improve memory or retain memories in the face of Alzeheimer's disease. This site has links to other useful sites.