The May “Take Charge of Your Health Today” page focuses on healthy aging. But the information provided is not only for seniors. Healthy aging is important for all of us. This month’s commentary features a conversation between Jennifer R. Jones, MPH, community engagement coordinator with the University of Pittsburgh Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), and Esther L. Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh.
JJ: Good afternoon, Ms. Bush. Isn’t it exciting that it’s starting to feel like spring?
EB: Yes, Jennifer; I’m so glad to see sunshine! We need it after a long winter. I see that we’re talking about healthy aging today. But first I want to talk a little bit about our “Take Charge” pages. We just had a partnership meeting last week, and I cannot speak enough about this unique partnership. To some, bringing together a newspaper, an African American advocacy organization, an academic research institution and a hospital system may prove difficult. But each partner—the Courier, the Urban League, Pitt CTSI and UPMC—is so committed to this. We work hard to provide the community with up-to-date, easily digestible health and research information. I’m glad to be a part of this page. For all of you who read this page each month, thank you.
JJ: I agree, Ms. Bush. It’s not only informative but also a fun way to disseminate research information. About healthy aging, do you think the saying “age is just a number” is true?
EB: I really do, and I’ll tell you why. Aging is a natural part of life. I’ve embraced it. We need to focus on how we feel—not the age we are. And we certainly shouldn’t use age as an excuse for not trying to live a healthy life. I bet there are some 80-year-olds who are healthier than 40-year-olds. What I learned from reading this month’s health overview is the importance of prevention. I like what Drs. Newman and Albert clearly stated—that it’s never too late to make a change that can improve your health.
JJ: So true. At Pitt Public Health, we focus on prevention—empowering people to lower their health risk behaviors. The “10 Keys”TM to Healthy Aging, as highlighted in the section below, are important to remember as we age. There are many parts of our health that we don’t have control over, but the 10 Keys remind us of the many ways we can age well.
EB: I’d encourage everyone to cut out the Keys and hang them on your refrigerator as a daily reminder. I’m also excited about the MOVE UP research study that will be held here at the Urban League. It seems to be a great, free program for older adults to learn how to live a healthier life.
JJ: It certainly is! For anyone who has never participated in research, but may have wanted to, this could be a positive fit. The research team at Pitt is informative, easy to talk to and will answer any questions. It was also great to partner this month with the Aging Institute. It has important information for both seniors and caregivers.
EB: There is a wealth of resources we have available here in Pittsburgh. We just need to take advantage of them!
JJ: As always, thank you so much for your time, Ms. Bush. Our June featured topic is “Sexuality and Stigma.” I’m looking forward to our thought provoking conversation.
For more information about the “Take Charge” page or to ask any questions, e-mail partners@hs.pitt.edu.
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