The Office of Services to the Aging recognizes May as National Older Americans Month. This year's theme, "Living Today for a Better Tomorrow," focuses on prevention efforts and programs that will help older people today enjoy better health tomorrow.

"As people age, they face increasing risk of chronic disease, disability and injury," said Sharon Gire, director of the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging (OSA), "So, we are committed to assisting older adults in our state and helping them make the right decisions for a healthy lifestyle that will affect their quality of life."

Nearly 40 percent of deaths are due to poor health habits such as lack of physical exercise, poor eating habits and smoking. With better health habits, many illnesses and disabilities are preventable or can be controlled. Older adults need to adopt healthy habits such as exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding tobacco use.

Older Americans are a valuable part of our society. They make a real difference in the lives of others. Some continue working to support themselves and their families. Others continue to learn, and perhaps gain new skills for a second career. Many of them volunteer to help their communities through civic engagement. They also work with children and youth as tutors and mentors to share their skills and wisdom with the younger generation.

For more useful information about healthy aging, go to the Michigan "Steps Up" website www.michiganstepsup.org. It provides ways for individuals to make lifestyle changes; track individual progress, and set-up healthy aging programs. Please also visit www.michigan.gov/miseniors and click on "Aging Well, Living Well" on the left side of the home page.