Welcome to this week’s “AHA Moments,” a weekly news flash regarding key events, happenings, articles, and other relevant information for our stakeholders.
Reminder: NHAHA September Quarterly Meeting is September 18
The New Hampshire Alliance for Healthy Aging (NHAHA) September Quarterly Meeting is just around the corner! Join partners from across the state on Thursday, September 18 in Concord for a morning of networking, statewide updates, and collaborative conversation.
What to expect:
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Presentation on emergency preparedness for older adults
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Highlight of a successful program “bright spot”
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NHAHA updates and upcoming fall events
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Advocacy updates
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Time to connect and network with peers
Doors open at 8:45 AM for coffee and networking. The meeting will conclude by 11:30 AM, with an optional lunch to follow.
Granite State Grandparents By the Numbers
In New Hampshire, more than 17,000 children, about 7 percent of all those under 18, live in grandfamilies—where grandparents provide primary care. These households often face economic and health-related challenges, with significantly lower median incomes and higher rates of disability compared to the state average. As we reflect on Grandparents Day, which took place on September 7, take a closer look at the data highlighting the vital role these caregivers play and the support they may need.
The Transitions of Aging: How Parents and Adult Children Can Adjust
From shifting health and mobility to changing identities and relationships, aging can bring unexpected challenges for older adults and their families. Adult children can play a more supportive role by listening closely, respecting autonomy, and building connection through shared stories.
Rethinking Fitness Programming for Older Adults
As the population of older adults continues to grow, traditional age-based exercise classifications such as “Senior Yoga” and “Silver Strength” are increasingly recognized as outdated and limiting. These labels often reinforce stereotypes that overlook individual capabilities and contribute to ageism within the fitness industry. Emerging programs focused on ability rather than age are promoting more inclusive and effective approaches, prioritizing functional capacity, autonomy, and personalized progression.
Virtual Education Program on Lifestyle and Dementia Risk
On September 18 at 6:00 p.m., the Alzheimer’s Association will host a virtual education program presenting findings from the U.S. POINTER clinical trial. The session will focus on how lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and cognitive engagement can help protect brain health and reduce the risk of dementia. Attendees will learn about practical, evidence-based strategies to support cognitive function.
Do You Have an Emergency Plan in Place?
September is National Preparedness Month! It’s a great time for all Granite Staters, including older adults, to review their emergency plans and supplies. Visit ReadyNH.gov for practical tips, alerts, and planning tools to help you and your loved ones stay safe before, during, and after emergencies.
Explore the Future of Caregiving at USAging’s 2025 Virtual Summit
On September 18 from 1:00–4:00 PM, USAging’s 2025 Innovations in Caregiver Services and Supports Virtual Summit will spotlight the latest in research, promising practices, and practical solutions that are transforming support for family caregivers. This event also celebrates the launch of USAging’s new Caregiver Services and Supports Innovations Hub, a space for collaboration and innovation.
Do you have an “AHA Moment” you would like to share, or would like us to add a friend to the “Moments” Mailing List? Please email Kathryn Selinga at Kathryn.Selinga@unh.edu