May is Older Americans Month, and the theme this year is Never Too Old to Play. I don't know about you, but I think this is an excellent theme. 

One thing I have learned as I have taught an aging class is that the best predictors of healthy aging are all things that

we can control, primarily diet, attitude and plenty of activity. 

As grown-ups, it's too easy for us to think of play as silly or a waste of time, but just think about what we do when we play: If we're playing hide-and-seek with the grandkids, we're moving around, not just sitting. If we're outside at a sporting event, we're outdoors getting plenty of sunshine, and we probably had to walk a bit to get there. If we're having game night with friends, we might be playing games like bridge or Taboo that 

engage our brains.

These types of activities are all things that help us stay physically and mentally sharp. And we don't have to do things with others in order to play. We can do

crossword puzzles or other word games, we can do all kinds of computer games that keep us engaged and connected, and we can garden or take walks on our own. 

I challenge everyone to spend more time playing this month--playing your way to good health!