In my previous post I discussed similarities found in individuals who reach the age of at least 100. These individuals studied have a great quality of life, as they are strong, healthy and happy. There are 4 key similarities between all of these Centenarians. The AARP along with Blue Zone decided to implement these 4 key elements into a city in the United States.
The city is Albert Lee, Minnessota. They changed the environment of the city to make it easier for its citizens to lead a healthier lifestyle. They did numerous things to change the town:
1) They convinced restaurants in the town to offer healthier foods and smaller portions. Centenarians tend to eat less and eat mostly veggies.
2) They added more sidewalks and made it more convenient for individuals to walk. They even began a walking school bus, in which large groups of children lead by an adult could walk to school. This activity allowed the children to get some extra physical activity. Centenarians bike, walk and perform labor intensive jobs. Physical activity is a part of life in environments of Centenarians.
3) Created opportunities for individuals to volunteer. They also started a morning walking program where individuals met one another each day to socialize and partake in physical activity. Both of these things create a social network for individuals. Social networks are important for leading a happy and healthy life. The walking group also held each other accountable for making sure they get in their daily exercise.
4) Encouraged individuals to figure out their purpose in life. Having a sense of purpose gets you motivated each morning you wake up.
The results were:
After 10 months, the town had completed 2500 hours of community service
and volunteering. Great things happen when we take the time to help
others. The fact that so many hours of service was completed is
amazing.
Activity levels increased by 40 % just by reconstructing the sidewalks
to improve accessibility. Forty percent is a huge number for an
increase in physical activity.
The individuals made many friendships as well. Loneliness is a
detrimental state for someone to be in. It takes a toll on physical
and mental health. Creating friendships keeps you happy and therefore
healthier.
And with the walking program took 75 million steps. Any improvement in
physical activity is great. We could all afford to walk a little
more.
By doing these things they added 3.1 years to their life expectancy.
And this was only after 10 months! There was also a 49% decrease in
health care costs for city workers. Therefore, you can most likely
deduct that individuals were healthier after these ten months. Lower
health care costs saves money individually and for the community.
No study is ever perfect. However, there is clear evidence that
changing your lifestyle to include more physical activity and take
better care of yourself emotionally and mentally has a positive effect
on health.
Take a look at your lifestyle and see where you can make little changes
today. Even one positive change can make a large difference in the
grand scheme of things. Take control of your health and reap the
immediate and long term benefits.
Let me know if you need any help.
Have a fun and fit day, Chicago.
Filed under: Uncategorized
Tags: aarp, albert lee, Chicago, health, health care, health cost
See! We don't have to live in Okinawa, Japan to see 100 years! http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2002-01-03-usat-okinawa.htm
Great to meet you, Ashley!
Exactly! It was great meeting you as well!
Thought you'd appreciate this: http://www.witn.com/home/headlines/69511867.html.
Woman turns 105...she attributes her longevity to green tea, which may be helpful, but I believe you're recs are a better bet. :)
oops, I mean "your" recommendations. hehe, typed without thinking.