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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 29, 2007

September is Go Forward Healthy Month
Governor, Department of Aging Urge All to Consider Healthy Habits

COLUMBUS - This September, Governor Ted Strickland and the Ohio Department of Aging encourage all Ohioans - but especially those age 60 and older and baby boomers about to turn 60 - to adopt or maintain healthy habits and attitudes to sustain long and active lives during Go Forward Healthy Month.

"For many of us, our lives are built around working too much, eating on the run and spending our free time relaxing in front of the TV," said Governor Strickland. "Individually, we can change that. It is never too late to adopt healthy habits, and even the smallest change today can significantly reduce our risk of chronic disease and improve the quality and quantity of our lives down the road."

Throughout September, the Department of Aging will promote healthy habits on a special Web page: www.GoldenBuckeye.com/goforward. Each week, the campaign will spotlight a different aspect of healthy aging with a unique theme:

• Sept. 2-8 - The Right Foods in the Right Amounts
• Sept. 9-15 - Keep Strong, Stay Moving
• Sept. 16-22 - Rx For Health: Talk to Your Doctor
• Sept. 23-29 - Healthy Body, Mind and Spirit

"Living a long, healthy life takes some work and dedication, but it can be fun at the same time," added Barbara E. Riley, Director of the Department of Aging. "Try new recipes with fresh fruits and vegetables. Find activities you can share with your children, grandchildren and friends that provide opportunities for exercise. Schedule a check-up for yourself, or offer to take a loved one to the doctor. Engage friends and families for help in kicking a bad habit or overcoming a difficult time."

The Department of Aging thanks the Ohio Department of Health, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Older Ohioans Behavioral Health Network for contributing resources and information to this campaign.

Governor's Proclamation

About ODA

The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.