Health & Wellbeing

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?

Whether you’re looking to support a loved one or are interested in how to improve your own brain health, we have a resource for you! AARP and BECU are proud to present, “Discover the Science of the Aging Brain.”

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.

AARP is working to educate members about benefits that are too often overlooked, such as property tax credits.

Family caregivers do remarkable things every day to care for their loved ones. We help with bathing and dressing, meal preparation, managing finances, transportation, grocery shopping, and so much more. There are more than 820,000 of us in Washington state performing this great labor of love – but it’s not without its challenges. It can be stressful and time consuming - and it can also feel incredibly isolating at times. Some of us might feel like we’re in it all on our own.