National Wellness Month in Bucks and Montgomery Counties

August is National Wellness Month. This is a time to focus on self-care, build healthy habits, and prioritize overall well-being.

A recent study involving 12 older adults found that self-care practices address not only medical needs but also physical, emotional, social, leisure, and spiritual domains.

Earlier, we observed Mental Health Month in May, emphasizing mental well-being. Now, in August, it’s National Wellness Month! What is wellness? Wellness refers to a state of being in good health, not limited to mental health, but including physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and leisure aspects.

There are numerous opportunities for wellness and self-care right here in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. Supporting these practices is essential for helping older adults remain independent and age in place in their own homes. Read on for a guide to where and how to prioritize your wellness this month.

Physical Wellness

Walk with Ease Program: A structured walking program designed to improve mobility and reduce pain. Offered by the Bucks County Area Agency on Aging. Contact: Amanda Mayer at 267-880-5744 or amayer@buckscounty.org

River Crossing YMCA: Provides group exercise classes, aquatic workouts, and lap swimming tailored for seniors. Membership options include insurance-based plans like SilverSneakers.

Emotional Wellness

Central Behavioral Health Senior Services: Offers programs like Senior Intensive Support (SIS) and Senior Outreach Services (SOS) to assist older adults with mental health concerns. These services help seniors manage symptoms and connect to community support.

Telephone Reassurance Program: Provided by Family Services of Montgomery County, this program offers scheduled, weekday phone calls from trained volunteers to ensure the well-being of older adults. Contact: 610-326-1610 or HEARTH@fsmontco.org

Social Wellness

Central Bucks Senior Activity Center (CBSAC): Offers over 23 different classes and activities each week, including social events and volunteer opportunities.

Montco SAAC – Ambler Art Center: Provides recreational, educational, and social programs for adults aged 50 and better. Activities include art classes, social lunches, and wellness programs

Spiritual Wellness

Local Faith-Based Communities: Many churches and synagogues in Bucks and Montgomery Counties offer senior programs, including spiritual gatherings, study groups, and volunteer opportunities. Engaging with these communities can provide spiritual support and a sense of belonging.

Tips on Getting Started

• Journaling: Encourages self-reflection and emotional expression.
• Setting realistic goals: Celebrate the small victories, but also break down larger goals into daily, short-term, and long-term goals.
• Finding like-minded people: Shared goals boost motivation and social connection. Invite a workout buddy to walk together or share progress.
• Balanced nutrition: A diet rich in nutrients supports energy, mood, and immune function for older adults.
• Sleep routines: Seniors benefit from consistent rest, aiming for 7-8 hours per night.

How Can Griswold Help?

Not sure where to get started, Griswold can help. If you or a loved one is struggling with prioritizing wellness and in need of support or relief, we understand, and we’re here to help. At Griswold, we offer a range of specialized Care Services, including Around-the-Clock and Personal Care.

We can also provide Companionship Services, a friendly presence to engage in hobbies, conversation, outings, errands, and more. Additionally, our Homemaking Services can ease the daily load by assisting with light housekeeping, laundry, grocery shopping, and meal preparation. Let us take some of the responsibilities off your plate so you can focus on your wellness.

Contact us today and we’ll assist you in getting started with your care journey!