Health & Wellbeing

Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner’s Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors have created a new tool to help you plan for Medicare Open Enrollment

September is National Preparedness Month, which AARP Washington will observe with virtual training sessions to help older adults and the families that care for them stay safe. The programs will discuss how to create plans, protect property and finances, and learn about Washington’s natural risks.

When I took on the role of leading Medicare, one of my primary goals was to crush the chronic fraud, waste, and abuse in the program. Ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and that Medicare resources remain available for those who depend on them is a top priority.

As Brain Health Awareness Month comes to a close, many of us are eager to learn how to maintain a healthy brain. But what truly matters for brain health? Do brain games and puzzles make a difference? How do learning, social interactions, and music contribute?

By Katie Zeitler, Dementia Friends Program Manager

AARP will host a webinar on Thursday, June 5, to share tips on understanding the latest research and ways to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Many of us probably already know that eating right and exercising can help us live healthier as we age. But we may know less about how isolation, purpose, and one’s perceptions of aging can impact our health and longevity. In her new book, “The Second Fifty: Answers to the 7 Big Questions of Midlife and Beyond,” author Debra Whitman explores the surprising factors that determine life expectancy, revealing that those who view aging positively live 7.5 years longer than those with negative attitudes.

by Priya Helweg, Acting Regional Director and Executive Officer, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Region 10

Washington residents can schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments or walk into a nearby pharmacy to get a shot. Here’s how to find an updated vaccine near you.

As we continue to navigate these challenging times, it’s essential to prioritize mental well-being. This is especially true for older adults, who may be reluctant to seek support due to stigma, misconceptions about mental health services, and lack of awareness about available resources. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers multiple programs aimed at improving the mental health and well-being of all ages.