September is Healthy Aging Month, a reminder that aging well is about more than adding years to life—it’s about adding life to years. It encourages us to take a more proactive approach to ensure that we have vitality, independence and well-being as we get older.

Tips for Healthy Aging

Aging well means making simple, consistent choices that help you take care of your body, as well as your mind. Here are some evidence-based tips and resources at UCR to help you implement them:

• Stay active: Aim for 30 minutes of physical activity most days. UCR provides access to employee fitness and wellness options through recreation and health programs on campus.
• Eat for wellness: Eating a balanced, healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins promotes heart and brain health. Visit UCR Dining Services for healthy eating tips and resources.
• Challenge your mind: Reading, doing puzzles, or learning new things keeps your brain sharp. UCR also offers professional development and enrichment programs that nurture thinking.
• Stay connected: Social ties improve mood and protect against cognitive decline. Take advantage of UCR community events and wellness initiatives to strengthen those connections.
• Prioritize sleep: Sleep can restore energy, and improve mood and memory. Ask about sleep strategies from wellness coaching at UCR.
• Schedule check-ups: Routine health screenings or primary care services from UCR Health can often catch issues early, which supports lifelong health and wellness.

A Doctor's Perspective

Dr. Ramy Sadek, a board-certified physician in Cardiovascular Medicine and Internal Medicine at UCR Health – Riverside Downtown (Primary Care), emphasizes that healthy aging begins with prevention.

“Maintaining heart health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine checkups can significantly improve quality of life and decrease the risk of cardiovascular events,” says Dr. Sadek. “Preventive care allows us to detect and manage conditions early, helping older adults stay active, independent, and engaged in their communities.”

Stay Connected with UCR Wellness Resources

In addition to both clinical care and community programs, UCR also offers resources to support the faculty and staff on their own wellness journey. One simple way to stay engaged is to subscribe to the UCR Faculty and Staff Wellness Newsletter: Faculty and Staff Well-being Bites. Faculty and Staff Well-being Bites is a newsletter with wellness tips, highlights of upcoming wellness events, and resources to help support wellness year-round.

UCR Health’s Commitment to Healthy Aging

At UCR Health, our mission is to help individuals embrace aging with strength and dignity:

• Primary Care & Preventive Screenings: Proactive visits to manage ongoing health and prevent illness.
• Geriatric Medicine: Focused care tailored to the unique needs of the older adult population.
• Community Engagement: Workshops, DocTalks, and outreach events that equip the community with tools for long-term wellness.

Looking Ahead with Confidence

Aging is a natural and beautiful journey, and when it is supported with intentional habits and care, it can be one of life's most fulfilling chapters. This Healthy Aging Month, let UCR Health be your partner in building a stronger, happier tomorrow.