Age Well with WIHA

Age Well with WIHA: Supporting Healthy Aging Across Wisconsin 

Aging is something we all have in common. While each person’s journey is unique, we all benefit from having access to information, resources, and opportunities that help us stay healthy, connected, and engaged in the things that matter most to us. 

That’s where the Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging (WIHA) comes in. 

WIHA is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting health and well-being as we age. Through partnerships with local aging service organizations, healthcare providers, community centers, and public health agencies across Wisconsin, WIHA helps bring evidence-based programs and resources directly into communities throughout the state. 

WIHA embraces a simple perspective on aging: we all have the opportunity to continue growing, contributing, and thriving throughout our lives. Healthy aging isn’t about avoiding the aging process; it’s about having the tools, knowledge, and support to live well at every stage of life. 

One of WIHA’s primary roles is to distribute curriculum and provide training to community partners in health promotion programs. WIHA distributes 11 high-level evidence-based programs through a network of local program providers across the state. These programs have been carefully researched and shown to improve health outcomes, build confidence, and support independence. Wisconsin residents can participate in workshops focused on topics such as fall prevention, physical activity, chronic disease self-management, diabetes management, and women’s incontinence. Many of these programs are offered locally across Wisconsin and/or online. (Visit https://wihealthyaging.org/programs/find-a-workshop/ to find a workshop near you) 

In addition to workshops, WIHA offers educational resources that help people make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The monthly Age Well Series webinar connects community members with experts on topics related to healthy aging, including brain health, nutrition, physical activity, social connection, caregiving, medication safety, and more. These free presentations provide practical information we can use in our everyday lives. (Visit https://wihealthyaging.org/age-well-series/ to see past and upcoming presentations) 

WIHA also leads and supports statewide initiatives that support older adult health and well-being, including falls prevention, social connection, and creating communities where people of all ages can thrive. By working collaboratively with hundreds of partner organizations throughout Wisconsin, WIHA helps ensure that resources and opportunities reach all communities.  (Visit https://wihealthyaging.org/initiatives/ for more information) 

Whether you’re looking to improve your health, stay active, learn something new, become a program facilitator, or connect with healthy aging programs in your community, WIHA is here to help. 

To learn more about upcoming programs, educational events, and healthy aging resources, visit wihealthyaging.org. You can also sign up for WIHA’s free bi-monthly newsletter, delivered directly to your inbox six times each year, featuring healthy aging tips, community programs, and opportunities to support your well-being. 

Healthy aging is a lifelong journey—and together, we can continue building communities where everyone has the opportunity to age well. 

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Turn the Page: How Reading Impacts Healthy Aging 

Wellness is about more than just physical health. The 8 Dimensions of Wellness include physical, emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, social, and spiritual well-being. Together, these areas help support a healthy and fulfilling life. This month, we’re focusing on intellectual wellness.  

Intellectual wellness is about keeping your mind active, curious, and engaged. Reading is a simple and enjoyable way to do that. Whether you enjoy mystery novels, biographies, newspapers, magazines, or books about a favorite hobby, reading can help us learn new things and explore new ideas. 

Reading gives our brains a chance to stay active. It can help improve focus, build vocabulary, and encourage creative thinking. Reading also helps us continue learning throughout life. Every book, article, or story offers an opportunity to discover something new. 

Books can also help us connect with others. Joining a book club, sharing a favorite story with a friend, or discussing an article with family members can spark meaningful conversations. Learning and sharing ideas together helps strengthen our connections and build community. 

Reading can also be a great way to relax. Many people enjoy setting aside time each day to read, whether it is with a cup of coffee in the morning or before bed at night. Even a few minutes of reading each day can become a healthy habit. 

One of the best things about reading is that there is something for everyone. Public libraries offer books, audiobooks, magazines, and digital materials, often at no cost. Many libraries also host book clubs, educational programs, and community events. 

Our ability to learn and grow does not end at a certain age. Reading is a powerful reminder that there are always new ideas to explore, new skills to develop, and new stories to enjoy. 

This month, consider picking up a book, visiting your local library, or trying an audiobook. You might discover a new interest, learn something unexpected, or simply enjoy a good story. Every page is an opportunity to support your intellectual wellness and continue growing throughout life. 

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Every Step Counts: The Benefits of Walking 

Walking is one of the easiest ways to support our health as we age. It does not require special equipment, a gym membership, or years of training. Just putting one foot in front of the other can help us stay active, connected, and independent. 

As we get older, it is important to keep moving. Walking helps strengthen muscles and support healthy joints. Even short walks can make a difference. 

Walking is good for our hearts, too. Regular walking can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and support healthy blood sugar levels. It can also help us sleep better and have more energy throughout the day. 

The benefits are not just physical. Walking can improve our mood, reduce stress, and help keep our minds sharp. A walk around the neighborhood, a local park, or even inside a shopping mall can provide a chance to enjoy fresh surroundings and connect with others. 

One of the great things about walking is that it can fit into almost any lifestyle. You do not need to walk for an hour to see benefits. Start where you are. A 10-minute walk after a meal, a stroll with a friend, or a few laps around your home can all add up. 

Walk with Ease is a six-week walking program offered in communities across Wisconsin. Participants meet three times each week to walk together, build healthy habits, and support one another. Whether you are just getting started or looking for motivation to keep moving, Walk with Ease can help. To find a program near you, visit wihealthyaging.org/programs/find-a-workshop/. 

Whether we walk with a group, a friend, or on our own, every step can make a difference. Walking is a simple way to support our health, stay connected to our community, and continue doing the things we enjoy. So, let’s lace up our shoes and take that first step—our future selves will thank us! 

In this Issue

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Recipe: Sunshine Salad

Oranges help to brighten up this tasty veggie salad. It is quick and easy to make. Top it off with your favorite vinaigrette.

Makes 5 servings.

Ingredients

5 cups spinach leaves (packed, washed, and dried well) 
1/2 red onion (sliced thin) 
1/2 red pepper (sliced) 
1 cucumber (whole, sliced) 
2 orange (peeled and chopped into bite-size pieces) 
1/3 cup vinaigrette dressing (“lite”, around 15 calories per tablespoon or less) 

Directions

1. Toss all ingredients together in a large bowl. Add dressing and toss again. Serve immediately.

For nutrition information and additional summer recipes, see here.