Blue Zones’ Post

Despite the worrying results, there are some signs of improvement in some countries. The study showed that almost half of the world’s countries have made some improvements over the past decade, and 22 countries were identified to be on track to reach the global target of reducing inactivity by 15% by 2030, if their trend continues at the same pace. In light of these findings, WHO is calling on countries to strengthen their policy implementation to promote and enable physical activity through grassroots and community sport and active recreation and transport (walking, cycling and use of public transport), among other measures. “Promoting physical activity goes beyond promoting individual lifestyle choice – it will require a whole-of-society approach and creating environments that make it easier and safer for everyone to be more active in ways they enjoy to reap the many health benefits of regular physical activity,” said Dr Fiona Bull, Head of the WHO Unit for Physical Activity. Collective efforts based on partnerships between government and nongovernmental stakeholders and increased investments in innovative approaches will be needed to reach the least active people and to reduce inequalities in access to measures promoting and improving physical activity.

Compared with non-active commuters, cycle commuters have a 47% lower risk of death from any cause; a 51% lower risk of cancer death. This according to a large longitudinal study out of Scotland. Building safe cycle infrastructure, and getting more people to cycle, ought to be one of the top public health measures any government takes. #cycling #health #publichealth #activetravel #activemobility #research

TAAIL is excited to explore the fascinating intersection of AARP's age-friendly communities and the renowned concept of Blue Zones! AARP's dedication to crafting inclusive and accessible spaces for aging individuals perfectly aligns with the holistic approach of Blue Zones, regions celebrated for the longevity and well-being of their residents. Together, AARP and Blue Zones challenge conventional views on aging by prioritizing comprehensive well-being. While AARP's age-friendly communities tackle vital factors like housing, transportation, and community engagement, Blue Zones offer profound insights into longevity through a holistic lens encompassing diet, social connections, and purposeful living. This fusion of approaches presents a compelling blueprint for promoting not only longer life but also a higher quality of life in later years. AARP's emphasis on fostering community ties and accessibility beautifully complements Blue Zones' focus on wholesome nutrition and meaningful living. In essence, the synergy between AARP and Blue Zones offers a comprehensive framework for reimagining the aging experience. By nurturing environments that prioritize physical, social, and emotional well-being, this collaboration challenges traditional notions of aging, presenting an inspiring model for a fulfilling and healthier aging journey. Join us in exploring how the integration of age-friendly communities and Blue Zones' insights can redefine aging and enhance community wellness. The challenge becomes how we can embrace the opportunity to create environments where individuals not only live longer but also thrive in every aspect of their lives, with community support? Join our next TAAIL broadcast on Thursday, February 22nd at 9:00am EST (New York) or 3:00pm CET (Brussels) at https://lnkd.in/eSc2abSJ  #AgingWell #CommunityWellness #BlueZones #AARP #ActiveAging #WellnessJourney #StrategicDoing #TheActiveAgingIdeationLab

Startling statistic: just 19% of seniors feel very sure they can foot the bill for the necessary services to age in place. We're here to help change that at SeniorThrive. If you have any questions of how we can help, feel free to contact us or visit our website to learn more! #ageinplace #agingwithgrace #aginginplace #agingwell #seniorliving #healthyaging #seniorhomecare

Starting This Month: The Reset Project in the Victoria, Australia – Connecting Healthcare, People and Nature with Each Other 🌳🏄🐴👫 In recent weeks, the Grampians and surrounding communities have faced significant challenges, including bushfires that have affected many lives and homes. In these times of adversity, the importance of community, resilience, and well-being becomes even more pronounced. It’s in this context that we find hope and inspiration in initiatives like the Reset Project, which starts this month. Led by the Western District Health Service (WDHS) this ambitious journey focuses on nature-based activities like equine therapy and surfing to enhance mental and physical health, offering a pathway towards healing and stronger community bonds. The Reset Project is another great example of the integration of nature into our #healthcare framework, addressing an urgent need highlighted by the HILDA study over the past few decades and intensified during COVID - a concerning decrease in social connection. This initiative seeks not just to reverse this trend but to pioneer a path toward a more connected, healthier community through the therapeutic powers of our natural surroundings. By creating opportunities for diverse groups, from those living with diabetes to individuals facing social anxiety, the project underlines the potential of lifestyle and non-medical options in fostering health, well-being and resilience. The Reset Project is being led by Philip Wilson, and the outcomes of this project are being evaluated by the National Centre for Farmer Health. Looking forward to more data and valuable insights that will inform future health service innovations, ensuring a healthier, more connected #Australia! #ResetProject #SocialPrescribing #Loneliness #CommunityHealth #RuralHealth #FarmersWellbeing #RegionalAustralia Victorian Department of Health For those interested in further information on research areas related to this story, relevant ASPIRE Australian Social Prescribing Institute of Research and Education Expert Panel Chairs include: A/Prof Eric Brymer - Physical Activity Prof Thomas Astell-Burt - Nature Based Solutions Prof Xiaoqi Feng - Lonelygenic Environments Ms Leanne Wells - Consumers and Community Source: https://lnkd.in/gSnVqqWq

“The human body is meant to move. The body works a lot better when people are moving more”. -Dr. Ross Brownson It might not be a surprise that humans need to move, but did you know that living in different neighborhoods can have a significant impact on your health? According to News in Health, access to green spaces, like parks, can improve longevity and mental well-being, possibly due to their ability to reduce stress and foster social connections. On the other hand, living near busy roads with noise and air pollution can have negative health effects, including an increased risk of heart disease and depression. That's why Health Conscious works to improve health equity and offer health solutions to everybody! And, you have the power to create positive changes in your health and your community too! Here are some actionable steps to make a difference: 1. Spend time in green spaces like parks; they improve mental well-being and reduce stress. 2. Find ways to incorporate more movement into your daily life, like walking, and create safe places for physical activity in your community. 3. Support farmers' markets and advocate for better food options in your area. 4. Collaborate with neighbors and local authorities to improve your neighborhood's health by creating walking paths, green spaces, and healthier food choices. What is one thing that you are willing to do for your community? #healthequity #communityhealth #greenspaces #farmersmarkets #morewalking #movementmatters https://lnkd.in/eVCNivPs #health #nutritioneducation #healthyeating #communityhealth

In a world where change is inevitable, the revitalization of our communities takes center stage, transforming them into adaptable, health-conscious hubs of well-being and economic growth. This vision is not mere speculation but a tangible reality, achieved through the collective efforts of residents, professionals, government bodies, businesses, and investors. In this article, we explore the impact of community revitalization on health, longevity, and economic prosperity, creating a path towards a brighter tomorrow. https://lnkd.in/gFftT2zu

Walking is a valuable activity with numerous benefits beyond physical health. It can improve mental well-being, contribute to environmental sustainability, and foster social connectivity. Regular walking can help maintain a healthy weight, prevent chronic diseases, and reduce stress. Walking in natural environments can further enhance these benefits. Additionally, walking is a zero-emission form of transportation that promotes community engagement and reduces crime rates. By incorporating walking into our daily routines, we can enhance our overall well-being and make a positive impact on our health and the environment.

🌟 Impact Spotlight Monday: Walking for Health in Market Weighton Each Monday, we showcase the social value created by organisations across the UK. This week, we're featuring East Riding of Yorkshire Council's Walking for Health initiative in Market Weighton. East Riding of Yorkshire has been running the walking group in Market Weighton for the past 10 years, aiming to improve lives through the power of walking. They recently used the Social Value Engine to measure the social and economic impact of this community-driven project. Key outcomes: - Improved mobility, balance & coordination for 27 people - Increased activity levels and energy for 45 people - Weight loss for 15 people - Enhanced social inclusion for 39 people - Greater happiness and self-esteem for 43 people Using the Social Value Engine, East Riding of Yorkshire calculated that for every £1 invested in the Market Weighton Walking for Health project, £7.41 of social and economic value is returned to the community. That's a total social impact of £81,522 against a delivery cost of £10,636. This initiative demonstrates the potential of community-led health projects. By empowering volunteers, providing a safe and supportive environment, and promoting the benefits of walking, Market Weighton Walking for Health is contributing to a healthier and more connected community. Congratulations to East Riding of Yorkshire and everyone involved in this project. Your work is making a positive difference and highlighting the value of investing in preventative health and wellbeing programmes. To learn more about measuring your organisation's social impact, visit our website: https://lnkd.in/eH_gCiB7. #ImpactSpotlight #WalkingForHealth #SocialImpact #CommunityWellbeing #HealthyLiving #SocialValueEngine #EastRidingOfYorkshire

#NYC Aims for Healthier, Longer Lives 🍎🏙️ New York City has launched an ambitious public-health campaign aiming to increase the average life expectancy of its residents to 83 years old by 2030. Here are some key takeaways from this initiative: ✔️ The city is tackling the major drivers of life expectancy, including chronic diseases and mental health issues. ✔️ The plan involves a multi-agency effort, indicating a holistic approach to public health. ✔️ Low-income residents, who often have limited access to healthy food and exercise spaces, are a particular focus of the initiative. (h/t to Ken Dychtwald for sharing the insightful article.) Source: https://lnkd.in/gVsDWkZq Here's my take: While this is a commendable step towards healthier living in the city, it's crucial to remember that health begins at home. The design and layout of our living spaces can significantly influence our lifestyle choices and overall well-being. More efforts should be directed towards supporting healthy designs in homes, enabling residents to easily make healthier choices every day. Let's not just aim for longer lives, but also for healthier, happier ones right from our homes! 🏠💪 #PublicHealth #HealthyLiving #UrbanDesign #HealthyDesign #TheWellHome #InteriorDesign #BuiltEnvironment #Wellness #Wellbeing #chronicconditions #Health #Housing #LifeExpectancy #HealthyNYC --- 🗣️ Dear #NYC Public Health Officials... If you're reading this, The Well Home can help. Reach out (DM or email me) and let's have a conversation to see how we can help design health into NYC residents' living environment. Dr. Ashwin Vasan Ashish Jha