Every fall, Medicare offers an important window for making changes to your health coverage. From October 15 to December 7, Medicare Open Enrollment allows you to review your current plan, compare options, and make adjustments for the coming year. Whether you want to save money, find better coverage, or simply ensure your plan still meets your needs, this period is your opportunity to take action.
What You Can Do During Open Enrollment
• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan (or vice versa).
• Change Medicare Advantage Plans if you already have one.
• Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan.
Any changes you make will take effect on January 1 of the new year.
Why It Matters
Plans can change each year — premiums, drug formularies, provider networks, and coverage rules may shift. Even if you’re happy with
your current plan, reviewing your options could uncover better pricing or expanded benefits. Medicare Advantage Plans, for example, may add vision, dental, hearing, or wellness perks.
Steps to Take
1. Review Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
Your plan will send this document in September. It lists changes in costs, coverage, and services for the upcoming year.
2. Make a List of Your Current Needs
Include doctors you see regularly, prescriptions you take, and any upcoming health concerns or procedures.
3. Compare Plans
Use the official Medicare Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov. It lets you compare premiums, out-of-pocket costs, covered medications, and provider networks.
4. Ask Questions
If something is unclear, contact your plan provider or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227). Local State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) offer free, personalized help.
Quick Guide
Tips for a Smooth Enrollment
• Don’t wait until the last week — websites and phone lines get busy.
• Double-check prescription coverage — drug prices can vary widely by plan.
• Confirm your doctors are innetwork if you’re considering Medicare Advantage.
• Keep records — save confirmation numbers and paperwork.
Medicare Open Enrollment is your annual chance to ensure you’re getting the coverage and value you deserve. A little research now can protect your health — and your budget — all year long.
ACTIVESeniors local credits
executive publishers
Hal G. Fox & Suzanne Polk Fox
managing editor
Suzanne Polk Fox
copy editor
Christian Dischler
contributing writers
Amber Arevalos
Alison Braidwood
Wanjiru Ciira
Patricia Gyrl
Juliane Morris
Nellie Palmer
Chloe Rose art
design and production
Suzanne Fox
Claire Thomas
The information contained in Active Seniors is intended for educational purposes only. A reader should never substitute information contained in Active Seniors for the advice of a health care professional. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC and publishers of Active Seniors, do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Active Seniors and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements contained in Active Seniors. Readers should not use the information in Active Seniors for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. Readers should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or have or suspect they have a health problem. V1
• Parts Included: Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance).
• Coverage: Nationwide coverage with any provider that accepts Medicare.
• Prescription Drugs: Not included; must add a separate Part D plan.
• Extra Benefits: Generally none beyond medical and hospital care.
• Costs: You pay premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance; no annual out-of-pocket maximum.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
• Parts Included: Combines Part A and Part B, often includes Part D (prescriptions).
• Coverage: Must use network providers in most cases; coverage is area-specific.
• Prescription Drugs: Usually included in the plan.
• Extra Benefits: Often offers dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, and wellness perks.
• Costs: May have lower premiums but includes copays; annual out-of-pocket maximum provides spending protection.
Quick Tip:
If you want flexibility to see any Medicare provider nationwide, Original Medicare might be better. If you prefer an all-in-one plan with extra benefits and are okay with provider networks, Medicare Advantage could be the right fit. For More Information Check the Official Source: medicare.gov
https://www.medicare.gov/
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By Grant Parker
Fall Fall
Gardening Gardening
WITHOUT OVER DOING IT
WITHOUT OVER DOING IT
AS THE VIBRANT COLORS OF FALL FADE, YOUR GARDEN BEGINS ITS QUIET SHIFT INTO WINTER REST. FOR SENIORS WHO LOVE TENDING THEIR PLANTS, THIS IS THE TIME TO PREPARE FOR THE NEXT GROWING SEASON — BUT WITHOUT PUSHING YOUR BODY BEYOND ITS LIMITS. A FEW MINDFUL STEPS NOW WILL PROTECT YOUR GARDEN AND YOUR ENERGY.
Work in Short Bursts
Instead of tackling the whole garden in one day, break tasks into 20–30 minute sessions. This approach is gentler on your joints and helps prevent fatigue. Schedule your gardening during the warmer part of the day when temperatures are more comfortable.
Use the Right Tools
Lightweight, long-handled tools reduce strain on your back and knees. Consider using a rolling garden seat or kneeling pad to make the work more comfortable.
Protect Yourself
Dress in layers so you can adapt to fluctuating fall temperatures. Wear gloves to prevent blisters and keep your hands warm. Don’t forget to hydrate — even in cooler weather, your body needs water.
Focus on Essentials
You don’t need to do everything before the first frost. Prioritize:
• Clearing debris to prevent pests and disease
• Cutting back perennials that won’t overwinter well
Mulching to protect soil and roots from freezing temperatures
Bringing in tender plants to winter indoors
Think Ahead
Planting spring bulbs in fall is a low-effort way to enjoy beautiful blooms next year. Garlic, tulips, and daffodils all benefit from a chilly rest underground. Choose a day when the soil is still workable, and plant at your own pace.
Listen to Your Body
Stop if you feel tired or sore. Winter prep is about setting your garden — and yourself — up for a healthy season ahead. You can always ask a friend, family member, or local gardening club to help with heavier jobs. By pacing yourself and focusing on what matters most, you’ll end the season with a tidy, protected garden and plenty of energy left to enjoy the holidays.
Quick Tip Chart — Fall To-Do List for Gardeners Over 60
Task
• Remove Dead Plants
• Cut back spent perennials
• Mulch garden beds
• Plant Spring bulbs
• Clean and store tools
• Bring in tender plants
When
• Early Fall
• Mid Fall
• Before first frost
• 4-6 weeks before ground freezes
• Anytime before Winter
• Before first frost
By Amber Arevalos
Root Vegetable Power
BEETS, SWEET POTATOES & CARROTS FOR LONGEVITY
When the air turns crisp and autumn colors fill the landscape, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some of nature’s most nourishing foods — root vegetables. Hidden beneath the soil, beets, sweet potatoes, and carrots store an impressive array of nutrients that can boost energy, support heart health, and contribute to a longer, healthier life. For seniors, these humble roots are more than just a side dish — they’re a colorful, delicious way to support longevity. Beets: Nature’s Heart Helper
Deep crimson and naturally sweet, beets are packed with nitrates, compounds that help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. For seniors, this means better oxygen delivery to muscles and the brain, potentially improving stamina and cognitive function.
Nutritional Highlights:
• High in folate, which supports healthy cell growth
• Rich in antioxidants, which fight inflammation
• Good source of fiber for digestive health
Easy Ways to Enjoy Beets:
• Roast sliced beets with olive oil and rosemary for
a caramelized treat
• Add grated raw beets to salads for color and crunch
• Blend into smoothies for a naturally sweet, nutrientrich boost
Sweet Potatoes: The Beta-Carotene Superstar
Sweet potatoes bring a burst of orange to your plate and a hefty dose of beta-carotene, an antioxidant your body converts into vitamin A. This nutrient is essential for eye health, immune function, and skin integrity.
Nutritional Highlights:
• Excellent source of vitamin A for vision and immune health
• Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood
pressure
• Provides complex carbohydrates for steady energy
Easy Ways to Enjoy
Sweet Potatoes:
• Bake whole and top with cinnamon and a dollop of Greek yogurt
• Cube and roast with olive oil for a quick side dish
• Mash with a splash of orange juice for a fresh twist
Carrots: Crunchy, Colorful, and CancerFighting
Carrots, with their satisfying crunch and mild sweetness, are rich in carotenoids, compounds linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and improved
immune health. Their high vitamin A content supports vision, which is especially important as we age.
Nutritional Highlights:
• High in antioxidants like betacarotene and lutein
• Good for eye health and immune defense
• Low in calories but satisfying due to fiber
Easy Ways to Enjoy Carrots:
• Steam lightly and drizzle with olive oil and dill
• Roast with honey and thyme for a glazed side
• Enjoy raw with hummus for a healthy snack
Why Root Vegetables
Support Longevity
These root vegetables share several longevity-promoting qualities:
AD• High in Fiber: Helps manage cholesterol and blood sugar
• Rich in Antioxidants: Fights cellular damage linked to aging
• Nutrient-Dense: Offers vitamins and minerals essential for bone, brain, and heart health
• Versatile in the Kitchen: Easy to prepare and adapt to dietary needs
By making these vegetables a regular part of your diet, you can enjoy the benefits of improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and better cardiovascular function.
Simple Longevity Plate
For a quick, nutrientpacked fall dinner:
• Roast a mix of beets, sweet potatoes, and carrots with olive
oil, garlic, and rosemary
• Serve alongside baked salmon or grilled chicken
• Add a side salad with leafy greens for extra antioxidants
A Seasonal Gift for Your Health
Autumn is the perfect season to embrace root vegetables at their peak flavor and nutritional value. Whether you’re enjoying a comforting roasted medley or adding shredded carrots to a salad, each bite is a step toward supporting a vibrant, active life. Next time you visit the farmers’ market or grocery store, let the brilliant reds, oranges, and purples of root vegetables inspire you. They may be humble, but their power to fuel longevity is anything but ordinary.
Apple Walnut Oatmeal Crumble
Ingredients:
• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 ½ cups low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
•1 large apple, diced (skin on for extra fiber)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-
By Nellie Palmer
inch baking dish.
2.Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, diced apple, and chopped walnuts.
3.Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until well combined.
4.Combine and pour: Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir gently until fully incorporated.
5. Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until
the top is set and golden.
6. Serve: Scoop into bowls and enjoy warm. For an extra treat, top with a spoonful of low-fat Greek yogurt or a drizzle of warm milk.
Heart-Healthy Tips:
• Use unsweetened almond milk for fewer calories and extra vitamin E.
•Keep the apple skin on to maximize fiber content.
• Swap walnuts for almonds or pecans if preferred — all contain healthy fats that can improve cholesterol profiles.
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By Nellie Palmer
Cooking for One
BAKED STUFFED SWEET POTATO
Ingredients
• 1 medium sweet potato
• 2 tbsp walnuts, chopped and lightly toasted
• 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt and pepper
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the sweet potato, pierce it several times with a fork, and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife.
2. While the potato bakes, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, combine parsley, mint, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently.
4. When the potato is done, slice it open lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork. Spoon the herb mixture over the top, then sprinkle with walnuts and pomegranate seeds.
5. Enjoy immediately as a light, nutrient-rich meal that balances sweet, savory, and tart flavors.
Why It’s Great for
Seniors
• Sweet potato provides fiber and vitamin A for vision and immunity.
• Walnuts add heart-healthy omega-3 fats and protein.
• Pomegranate seeds are rich in antioxidants and add a refreshing crunch.
• Fresh herbs brighten flavor without heavy seasoning or salt.
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Harvest Your Health
LOWER CHOLESTEROL WITH FALL FLAVORS
By Grant Parker
THE AIR IS CRISP, THE LEAVES ARE TURNING GOLD, AND THE FARMERS’ MARKETS ARE OVERFLOWING WITH AUTUMN’S BOUNTY. FOR SENIORS LOOKING TO MANAGE CHOLESTEROL AND KEEP THEIR HEARTS STRONG, FALL OFFERS MORE THAN JUST BEAUTIFUL SCENERY — IT’S A SEASON PACKED WITH DELICIOUS OPPORTUNITIES TO NOURISH YOUR BODY. HIGH CHOLESTEROL DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN BLAND, JOYLESS MEALS. BY LEANING INTO THE NATURAL FLAVORS AND NUTRIENTS OF FALL, YOU CAN CREATE DISHES THAT SATISFY YOUR TASTE BUDS WHILE GIVING YOUR HEART A LITTLE EXTRA LOVE.
Fall’s
Stars
Heart-Healthy All-
The stars of the season are more than pretty faces on your table. They’re nutritional powerhouses.
• Apples: Crunchy and sweet-tart, apples are rich in soluble fiber, particularly pectin, which helps lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
• Pumpkin: Packed with beta-carotene and fiber, pumpkin is a versatile ingredient for soups, baked goods, and even smoothies.
• Walnuts: These omega-3-rich nuts can reduce inflammation and improve overall cholesterol profiles.
• Brussels Sprouts: High in antioxidants and fiber, they roast into crispy, caramelized perfection.
• Oats: The classic cholesterol-lowering grain is perfect for hearty fall breakfasts.
Simple Swaps for a Healthier Season
Lowering cholesterol isn’t about giving up flavor; it’s about making smart, satisfying swaps.
• Butter → Olive Oil: Use extravirgin olive oil in roasted vegetables and salad dressings to replace saturated fats.
• Creamy Sauces → Yogurt-Based Dressings: Try plain Greek yogurt with herbs for a creamy, heartfriendly dip.
• Red Meat → Lean Protein: Swap in skinless turkey, chicken, or fatty fish like salmon for heart-healthy omega3s.
• White Bread → Whole Grain: Choose whole-grain breads and crackers for extra fiber and nutrients. These swaps reduce LDL cholesterol while keeping the rich, comforting flavors that make fall cooking so inviting.
Cooking in Color
One of the simplest ways to ensure your plate is heart-friendly is to make it colorful. Deep oranges, ruby reds, and vibrant greens signal antioxidant-rich foods that help reduce inflammation — a key factor in heart health.
A colorful fall dinner might look like:
• Roasted salmon with a cranberrywalnut relish
• Steamed Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil and lemon
• A baked sweet potato sprinkled with cinnamon
Not only is this meal full of hearthealthy nutrients, but it also looks beautiful on the plate.
The Power of Fiber
Fiber is one of your heart’s best friends, and fall produce delivers it in abundance. Soluble fiber binds to cholesterol in your digestive tract, helping remove it from your body. Aim for 25–30 grams of fiber a day. Easy ways to get there in fall:
• Start the morning with oatmeal topped with sliced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Add roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and beets to lunch salads.
• Snack on pear slices with a handful of walnuts.
Autumn Movement for Heart Health
Food is only half the picture — regular movement is another powerful tool for lowering cholesterol. Fall’s cooler temperatures are perfect for:
• Brisk morning walks through colorful parks
• Weekend hikes on local trails
• Light raking or gardening (bonus: fresh air and vitamin D!)
Just 30 minutes a day of moderate exercise can raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol and improve cardiovascular fitness.
A Heart-Healthy Harvest All Year Long
While fall’s produce and cozy recipes make it easy to focus on heart health now, the habits you build this season can last year-round. Think of autumn as your training ground — a chance to experiment with new recipes, routines, and ways of caring for yourself.
You don’t need drastic changes to make a big difference. A bowl of apple oatmeal here, a roasted salmon dinner there, a few extra minutes on your daily walk — these small, consistent choices add up to a stronger, healthier heart.
So bundle up, grab your shopping tote, and head to the market. Your heart will thank you for every crisp apple, golden pumpkin, and brussels sprout you bring home this season.
RELATIONSHIPS
Friendsgiving
By Alyssa Ingram
THE SCENT OF ROASTED TURKEY, THE WARMTH OF CANDLELIGHT, AND THE SOUND OF FRIENDLY LAUGHTER — FRIENDSGIVING IS MORE THAN JUST A MEAL; IT’S A CELEBRATION OF COMPANIONSHIP AND GRATITUDE. FOR SENIORS, THIS NEWER TRADITION OFFERS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO CONNECT WITH FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS, AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN A RELAXED, FESTIVE SETTING. WHILE THANKSGIVING OFTEN CENTERS AROUND FAMILY, FRIENDSGIVING PUTS THE FOCUS ON CHOSEN FAMILY — THE PEOPLE WHO BRING JOY, SUPPORT, AND COMFORT INTO YOUR
LIFE. IT’S A CHANCE TO GATHER AROUND THE TABLE, SHARE A HEARTY MEAL, AND CELEBRATE THE RELATIONSHIPS THAT ENRICH YOUR GOLDEN YEARS.
Planning with Ease
One of the best parts about Friendsgiving is its flexibility. Here’s how to make hosting (or co-hosting) easy and enjoyable:
1. Choose a Comfortable
Setting
Your home, a community center, or even a clubhouse dining room can work. The goal is accessibility — good lighting, plenty of seating, and minimal tripping hazards.
2. Share the Workload
Friendsgiving thrives on potluck style. Guests can bring a favorite dish, dessert, or beverage. This not only lightens the host’s cooking duties but also adds variety and personal flavor to the menu.
Simple decorations go a long way — a few pumpkins, autumn leaves, or a centerpiece of fresh flowers. Play gentle background music to set a cozy mood.
3. Make It Festive, Not Fussy
A Menu to Warm the Heart
You don’t need a traditional Thanksgiving spread to make the table special. Mix classics with easy, senior-friendly recipes:
•Roast turkey breast instead of a whole bird for smaller groups
•Slow-cooker stuffing or mashed sweet potatoes to save oven space
•A variety of side dishes that cater to dietary needs — think roasted vegetables, grain salads, or lowsodium green bean casserole
•Apple crisp or pumpkin pie for a sweet finish
Adding a Personal Touch
Friendsgiving can be about more than just food. Incorporate activities that spark conversation and memories:
•Memory Sharing: Ask guests to
bring a photo or small keepsake and share its story.
•Gratitude Jar: Provide slips of paper for each person to write what they’re thankful for, then read them aloud.
•Recipe Exchange: Have guests bring printed copies of their dish recipes to share.
Keeping It Comfortable
Consider the needs of your guests:
•Have extra blankets or shawls available for those who feel chilly
•Offer both seating at tables and softer chairs for relaxed chatting after the meal
•Keep walking paths clear for easy mobility
The Gift of Connection
At its heart, Friendsgiving isn’t
ADabout the food or the décor — it’s about friendship. Sitting around a fall table with people who care about each other fosters a sense of belonging that’s just as nourishing as the meal.
Whether it’s a gathering of three or thirty, Friendsgiving can become an annual tradition that brings joy and warmth to the season. The laughter, shared stories, and clinking of glasses are reminders that while autumn may signal the year’s end, it also offers moments rich with life, love, and gratitude.
So this year, set the table, light the candles, and invite your friends to share in the simple pleasure of being together. Because every season — and every friendship — is worth celebrating.
Fall
CRAFT DAYS
By Alyssa Ingram
Autumn brings crisp air, golden leaves, and the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy creative moments. Fall craft days aren’t just about making something pretty — they’re about sharing time with friends, family, or grandchildren, and connecting with the season in a hands-on way. Three crafts, in particular, are fun, affordable, and perfect for all ages: leaf pressing, pumpkin painting, and DIY bird feeders.
Leaf Pressing: Preserving Nature’s Artwork
Fall leaves are fleeting, but pressing them lets you keep their beauty long after they’ve fallen. Collect leaves in different shapes, sizes, and colors — the fresher, the better — then place them between sheets of wax paper or inside an old book. Weigh the book down with something heavy and let the leaves press for about a week. Once dried, you can frame them, use them as bookmarks, or create seasonal greeting cards. It’s a gentle, meditative activity that doubles as a beautiful keepsake.
Pumpkin Painting: Color Without Carving
If you love the idea of decorated pumpkins but want to skip the mess of carving, painting is the way to go. Choose pumpkins with smooth, unblemished surfaces, and
Make it a day to remember with leaf pressing, pumpkin painting and DIY bird feeders.
use acrylic paints or paint pens to bring your designs to life. You can go classic with autumn leaves and vines, whimsical with polka dots or animals, or elegant with gold or metallic accents. Painted pumpkins last longer than carved ones, making them a great decoration to enjoy all season.
DIY Bird Feeders: Welcoming Feathered Friends
As temperatures drop, birds begin searching for food sources. Making your own feeders is a simple way to help them while adding life to your yard or balcony. One easy method is to spread peanut butter on a pine cone, roll it in birdseed,
and hang it with a piece of twine. Another option is to cut an orange in half, scoop out the inside, fill it with birdseed, and hang it like a natural cup feeder. These projects take minutes to assemble and provide hours of bird-watching enjoyment.
Making It a Day to Remember
Whether you gather a group of friends, host a crafting afternoon with grandchildren, or spend a peaceful solo day creating, fall craft days bring joy to the season. The best part? You’ll end the day with beautiful decorations, thoughtful gifts, and happy memories — all wrapped in the colors and textures of autumn.
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-Harvest FestivalsWorth the Trip
By Grant Parker
Autumn is a season of abundance — the air grows crisp, leaves turn golden, and communities come alive with celebrations of the harvest. For seniors looking to combine travel with seasonal joy, harvest festivals are the perfect escape. From apple orchards to pumpkin patches, these gatherings offer food, music, and traditions that make fall unforgettable. Here are a few destinations worth adding to your travel calendar.
1. Applefest – Bayfield, Wisconsin
Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield transforms into apple paradise each October. The
town’s orchards open their gates for tours, tastings, and pick-yourown adventures. The festival features parades, live music, and local artisans selling crafts. For seniors, it’s easy to navigate — with shuttle buses between orchards and plenty of seating along the parade route. Don’t miss the fresh apple cider and famous apple pie.
2. Circleville Pumpkin Show –Circleville, Ohio
Known as “The Greatest Free Show on Earth,” the Circleville Pumpkin Show has been delighting visitors since 1903. Here, pumpkins take center stage — from giant pumpkin weigh-ins (some tipping
the scale at over 1,500 pounds) to pumpkin-flavored everything: donuts, ice cream, chili, and even pizza. The festival is walkable, with plenty of rest areas and community charm that make it senior-friendly.
If you’ve ever wondered how cranberries are harvested, this celebration in Massachusetts provides the answer. Visitors watch farmers flood the bogs and gather bright red berries in a dramatic display. There are tours, cooking demonstrations, and fresh cranberry treats to sample.
visual flair, the Dallas Arboretum’s annual display is unforgettable. More than 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash create imaginative sculptures and garden displays. This event is ideal for seniors who prefer a leisurely stroll among fall blooms, pumpkin villages, and seasonal exhibits. The arboretum also provides tram tours for those who’d rather ride than walk.
Travel Tips for Seniors
• Plan Ahead: Many festivals draw large crowds. Arrive early or visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
• Dress Comfortably: Autumn weather can change quickly, so layer clothing and bring a hat or scarf.
• Stay Hydrated & Take Breaks: Even in cooler weather, hydration is important. Look for
shaded seating areas for rest.
• Check Accessibility: Many festivals provide shuttles, trams, or handicap-accessible routes — call ahead to confirm.
A Season of Celebration
Harvest festivals aren’t just about pumpkins, apples, or cranberries — they’re about community and connection. Traveling to one of these events offers the chance to savor local flavors, enjoy regional traditions, and take in the beauty of autumn landscapes. Whether you’re sampling cranberry treats in Massachusetts, sipping wine in California, or wandering through a pumpkin village in Texas, harvest festivals offer seniors a joyful way to celebrate the season of abundance.
So pack your scarf, bring your appetite, and set your sights on adventure. This fall, the harvest is calling — and it’s worth the trip.
BAKED CHICKEN WITH ROOT VEGETABLES
Ingredients
•4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
•2 medium carrots, cut into 2-inch sticks
•2 small purple sweet potatoes, cut into chunks
•1 medium onion, cut into wedges
•2 small beets, peeled and cut into wedges
•2 tbsp olive oil
•2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
1. Heat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet or roasting pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots, sweet potatoes, onion, and beets with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread the vegetables in a single layer in the pan.
By Nellie Palmer
and the vegetables are tender. The chicken skin should be golden and crispy.
5.Transfer chicken and vegetables to plates, spooning any pan juices over the top. Serve warm with a side of leafy greens or a simple salad.
Why It’s Great for Seniors
•Chicken thighs are moist, flavorful, and rich in protein.
•Root vegetables like carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes provide antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.
•Onions and garlic boost flavor and heart health.
•Thyme adds a fragrant herbal note without extra salt.
3. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub lightly with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, skin side up.
4. Roast in the oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F
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AUTUMN WALKING CHALLENGE: 5,000 STEPS A DAY IN CRISP AIR
By Jacob Hornesby
Why 5,000 Steps?
While 10,000 steps has long been touted as the gold standard, research shows that even 5,000 daily steps can provide significant health benefits, especially for older adults. This manageable goal can improve heart health, maintain mobility, boost mood, and even sharpen cognitive function. It’s also less intimidating for those just starting or returning to a fitness routine.
Making It Fun and Seasonal
Fall offers endless opportunities to make walking enjoyable:
• Scenic Strolls: Explore local parks, botanical gardens, or tree-lined neighborhoods to enjoy the changing colors.
• Purposeful Walks: Turn errands into exercise by walking to the post office, farmers’ market, or a friend’s house.
• Photo Walks: Bring your phone or camera and capture autumn scenes along the way.
Breaking It Into Bites
You don’t need to log all 5,000 steps in one outing. Try:
• A brisk 15-minute walk in the morning (about 1,500 steps)
• A midday stroll after lunch (an-
THERE’S SOMETHING MAGICAL ABOUT WALKING IN AUTUMN. THE CRUNCH OF LEAVES UNDERFOOT, THE SCENT OF WOODSMOKE IN THE AIR, AND THE WARM GLOW OF AFTERNOON SUNLIGHT MAKE EVERY STEP FEEL LIKE A CELEBRATION OF THE SEASON. FOR SENIORS, FALL’S MILD WEATHER AND STUNNING SCENERY CREATE THE PERFECT BACKDROP FOR BUILDING HEALTHIER HABITS — AND THIS YEAR’S CHALLENGE IS SIMPLE: COMMIT TO WALKING 5,000 STEPS A DAY.
other 1,500 steps)
• A short evening walk to admire the sunset (2,000 steps)
Breaking your walking into smaller sessions makes it easier to fit into your day and reduces fatigue.
Safety and Comfort
• Wear sturdy, supportive shoes with good traction to avoid slips on fallen leaves.
• Dress in light layers so you can adjust to temperature changes.
• Stay hydrated, even when it’s cool outside. If you use a cane or walking poles, bring them along for extra stability.
Track Your Progress
A simple pedometer, smartphone app, or smartwatch can help you monitor your steps and stay motivated. Some apps allow you to join step challenges with friends or family, adding a social element to your daily walks.
A Season to Savor
The Autumn Walking Challenge isn’t just about hitting a number — it’s about savoring the beauty of the season while investing in your health. By the time winter arrives, you’ll have stronger legs, a healthier heart, and a collection of crisp-air memories to carry you into the next season.
