Year: 2026

Good health is about more than a strong body. Our thoughts, emotions, relationships, and sense of purpose also shape how we feel and live each day. During Mental Illness Awareness Week, we are reminded that mental health deserves attention and care, too, helping people of all ages feel supported, connected, and understood. Turning Science Into Hope This year’s Mental Illness Awareness Week theme, “Turning Science Into Hope,” highlights how research and personal stories can help shape better treatments and support. As our understanding of mental health conditions continues to grow, lived experiences remain an important part of the conversation. By listening, learning, and advancing research, we can help create more effective, compassionate, and hopeful approaches to mental health care. Research to Practice Mental health research continues to shape how we understand, prevent, and manage mental health conditions. In 2026, new studies are examining practical approaches involving daily habits, physical activity, digital support, and social connection. While research does not provide a single solution for everyone, it can offer useful guidance for making informed choices and knowing when additional support may be needed. Track Your Habits: Pay attention to your mood, sleep, exercise, diet, and social connections to identify patterns that may affect your well-being. Stay Active: Include regular movement, such as walking or other enjoyable activities, to support mental and physical well-being. Protect Your Sleep: Build consistent sleep habits, as research continues to connect healthy sleep with better mental health. Explore Supportive Tools: Consider accessible digital resources that can provide …

Celebrating Aging with Dignity and Respect Every year on October 1, the world observes the International Day of Older Persons, a day dedicated to recognizing the contributions of older adults and raising awareness about the opportunities and challenges that come with aging. For older adults, healthy aging is about more than physical health. It also includes maintaining independence, staying socially connected, receiving respectful care, and having opportunities to participate in the community. Supporting Healthy Aging As people age, changes in mobility, strength, memory, and overall health may require additional support. A person centered approach can help older adults maintain their quality of life while respecting their individual needs and preferences. Important aspects of healthy aging include: Staying physically active: Appropriate movement and exercise can support strength, balance, mobility, and independence. Eating a balanced diet: Adequate nutrition and hydration support overall health and recovery. Maintaining social connections: Meaningful relationships can help reduce isolation and promote emotional well-being. Regular healthcare: Routine checkups and appropriate management of health conditions are important at every age. Mental and emotional well-being: Opportunities for conversation, hobbies, learning, and recreation can help older adults remain engaged. The Importance of Dignity and Respect Older adults deserve care that recognizes their individuality, choices, experiences, and accomplishments. In nursing and rehabilitation settings, compassionate caregivers can make a meaningful difference by listening to residents, encouraging independence where possible, and involving them in decisions about their care. Celebrating Older Adults International Day of Older Persons reminds us that aging is a natural part …

Taking Steps Toward Safety Fall Prevention Awareness Week is observed September 21–25, 2026, bringing attention to practical ways older adults can reduce their risk of falls and maintain independence. Led by the National Council on Aging (NCOA), the annual observance emphasizes that falls are preventable and encourages older adults, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to take action. Why Fall Prevention Matters Falls are one of the most significant safety concerns for older adults. According to the CDC, more than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to fractures, head injuries, hospitalizations, and loss of independence. They are also the leading cause of injury-related death among older adults. The good news? Aging does not mean a fall is inevitable. Identifying risk factors early can help people take meaningful steps toward safer daily living. What Can Increase Fall Risk? Several factors can contribute to falls, including: Muscle weakness or balance difficulties Vision or hearing changes Certain medications Poor lighting Loose rugs or clutter Uneven flooring Improper or unsafe footwear Regular conversations with healthcare professionals can help identify individual risks and appropriate prevention strategies. Six Simple Steps to Help Prevent Falls NCOA highlights several practical strategies: participate in strength and balance exercises, talk with a healthcare provider about fall risks, review medications, schedule vision and hearing checks, keep living spaces safe, and discuss fall prevention with family and friends. Building Confidence Through Prevention Fall Prevention Awareness Week is a reminder that small changes can make a …

Celebrating Community, Compassion, and Connection Every September, communities across the country come together to recognize National Assisted Living Week, a special time dedicated to celebrating the residents, families, caregivers, and team members who make assisted living communities feel like home. National Assisted Living Week is more than a week of activities and celebrations. It is an opportunity to recognize the importance of community, compassion, friendship, and quality care in the lives of older adults. Celebrating the People Who Make a Community Special At the heart of every assisted living community are the people who live and work there. Residents bring their unique stories, experiences, personalities, and traditions, while caregivers and staff provide support, encouragement, and companionship each day. National Assisted Living Week gives everyone an opportunity to pause and appreciate these meaningful relationships. From shared conversations over a cup of coffee to group activities, celebrations, and everyday moments of laughter, these connections help create a true sense of belonging. Promoting Independence and Purpose Assisted living is designed to provide support while encouraging residents to remain as independent and engaged as possible. Personalized care, engaging activities, social opportunities, and comfortable living environments allow residents to continue enjoying the things that bring meaning and joy to their lives. Recreational programs can play an important role in this experience. Whether residents are enjoying bingo, arts and crafts, music, exercise, games, or special events, these activities provide opportunities for creativity, socialization, and personal expression. Building Stronger Connections One of the most valuable aspects of …

Raising Awareness, Understanding the Disease, and Supporting Those Affected September is World Alzheimer’s Month, an important time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, challenge misconceptions, and encourage greater understanding and support for people living with dementia and their families. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It is a progressive brain disorder that gradually affects memory, thinking, communication, and the ability to carry out everyday activities. While Alzheimer’s is more common among older adults, it is not a normal part of aging. What Is Alzheimer’s Disease? Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain and gradually damages the connections between brain cells. Over time, this can lead to increasing difficulties with memory, reasoning, communication, and daily functioning. Early symptoms may be subtle and can include: Forgetting recently learned information Repeating questions or conversations Having difficulty finding the right words Misplacing items or putting them in unusual places Struggling with familiar tasks Becoming confused about dates, times, or places Experiencing changes in mood, behavior, or personality Everyone experiences occasional forgetfulness, but persistent changes that interfere with daily life should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Alzheimer’s Is More Than Memory Loss Although memory problems are often associated with Alzheimer’s, the disease can affect many areas of a person's life. Individuals may eventually experience difficulties with decision-making, movement, communication, eating, personal care, and recognizing familiar people or surroundings. The progression of Alzheimer’s varies from person to person. There is currently no cure, but medical care, appropriate treatments, healthy lifestyle habits, supportive environments, and …

Celebrating a Tapestry of Culture: Hispanic Heritage Month Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities across the United States. Hispanic and Latino heritage is a beautiful thread in the tapestry of American culture. Woven through music, food, art, traditions, history, and community, these influences have helped shape the country in meaningful ways. From September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the many cultures and stories that make our communities richer and more vibrant. A Heritage of Many Cultures Hispanic and Latino communities represent a diverse collection of cultures, traditions, and histories spanning Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain. Each community brings its own unique customs, flavors, music, language, and traditions. Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes this incredible diversity while celebrating the shared experiences and lasting contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. The celebration begins on September 15, a significant date that marks the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile, and Belize also celebrate their independence days during this period. Together, these celebrations highlight the history, resilience, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. Shaping American Culture Hispanic and Latino culture isn't simply a part of American history—it is woven into everyday American life. From the foods we enjoy to the music we listen to and the languages we speak, Hispanic and Latino influences can be found throughout our communities. Some of these contributions include: Food: Tacos, tamales, empanadas, …

Understanding Cancer Cancer refers to a broad group of diseases in which abnormal cells multiply without proper control and can invade surrounding tissues or travel to other areas of the body. It may develop in nearly any part of the body and can affect people at any stage of life. Beyond physical health, a diagnosis can bring emotional, social, and financial challenges. World Cancer Support Month highlights the value of compassion, encouragement, and meaningful connection for individuals and families navigating this experience. Cancer Facts Worth Knowing Nearly 10 million people worldwide died from cancer in 2024, according to the World Health Organization. About 20.6 million new cancer cases were recorded globally in 2024. Lung, breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers were among the most frequently diagnosed types. Approximately 37% of new cases in 2022 were associated with preventable causes. Tobacco use accounted for about 15% of newly diagnosed cases worldwide. Other contributing factors include alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, excess body weight, air pollution, and ultraviolet radiation. HPV and hepatitis B vaccinations can lower the likelihood of developing certain cancers. Finding cancer early can make treatment more effective for many forms of the disease. Small Acts, Meaningful Support Facing cancer can feel overwhelming, but support can provide reassurance during uncertain moments. A phone call, a ride to an appointment, help with daily responsibilities, or simply being present can offer comfort. Loved ones and caregivers also deserve recognition, patience, and time to recharge. Turning Awareness Into Action World Cancer Support Month is a …