MSU Extension Chronic Disease

As we age, our health often becomes more of a focus. We let go of the invincible feelings of our younger years and begin to recognize the importance of our daily decisions and routines. We may recognize that we have risk factors for chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, osteoarthritis and several types of cancers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are among the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. The CDC also reports that six in ten people have at least one chronic condition, and that four in ten people have multiple chronic conditions. 

As we become more aware of our health, we may consider the health of our loved ones too. If we have people close to us, we look more closely at the example set for them and reflect on the health behaviors we model; you never know who you might inspire along the way.    

Here are strategies to live a healthy lifestyle:

• Use reputable and educational online resources, such as Michigan State University Extension, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Institutes of Health. These sources can help you learn more about a healthy lifestyle. For information on chronic disease education, visit Michigan State University Extension's Chronic Disease.
• The United States Department of Health and Human Services Healthy People 2030 provides objectives to improve health. Objectives that make great personal health goals include reducing cigarette smoking, increasing physical activity or time spent moving your body, and getting cancer screenings.
• Set realistic goals to work on your health and consider what is important to you. Research shows that working with individual motivating factors contributes to improved health outcomes.
• Discuss health topics with people close to you who support your healthy lifestyle choices; they may even be interested in becoming an accountability partner. 
• Change or develop one habit a month. Michigan State University Extension offers a variety of health programs like PATH (Personal Action Toward Health) that use action plans to break down goals to increase your chances of success. Small changes are often more manageable long term. Research shows that personal action plans can be a great tool in managing our health. 
• Build in rewards as these healthy habits become more natural. Think of rewards that reinforce your healthy lifestyle like a new fitness accessory, cookbook, giving yourself a moment to drink your tea mindfully, or walking a special trail with a friend.

With a few small changes, a healthy lifestyle is within reach. It is possible to reduce the likelihood of developing chronic diseases. Consider enrolling in an educational program that supports your health goals. You can also self-refer to Michigan State University Extension health programs. For your health, keep moving forward one small step at a time.