Five virtual resources for older Veterans to remain active

Senior Health and Fitness Day is May 29. VA wants to encourage physical activity and highlight resources to guide older Veterans on a path to better health, wellness and community connections.

Maintaining an active lifestyle is key to staying healthy and independent as we age. “At VA, we do what we can to keep Veterans healthy, socially engaged and remain active and independent as long as we can. We like to build relationships and see the longevity of Veterans that participate in our programs,” said Dr. Katherine Hall, director of the VA National Gerofit program.

Explore the resources below to get active.

1. Gerofit exercise program

Gerofit is a VA clinical program promoting health, wellness and safe exercise for older Veterans. The program has a digital library of workout videos suitable for all ages and functional abilities that can be done anytime, from anywhere. Some of these exercise videos include:

• Core strengthening and back pain prevention routines.
• Seated yoga series.
• Long COVID functional recovery exercises.
• Cardio circuits for all abilities.

Hall is proud of how far Gerofit has come. Gerofit is now available in 33 VA sites, and the digital library allows more Veterans the opportunity to participate.

“We’ve developed resources that offer broader access to the program. Even for Veterans that don’t live near a Gerofit program,” she shared.

2. MOVE! Coach App

The MOVE! Coach app helps Veterans set and achieve goals for healthy eating, physical activity and weight management. The app has guides to help you on your journey:

• Self-management modules: Worksheets and activities can help build healthy eating habits and an active lifestyle.
• Daily trackers: Track your progress on your goals daily.
• Calculation tools: Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI), exercise intensity, calories burned and steps taken.
• Stress management resources: Support your mental health with tips on relaxation, better sleep and more.

3. The My HealtheVet Community

The My HealtheVet Community shares relevant events, opportunities, VA benefits and ways to manage your health care. Here are a few articles with helpful insights for older adults:

• When You Turn 50: A Milestone for Your Health
• Nutrition for Aging: Vitamin D
• Prevent Falls in Your Home
• Better Balance, Better Strength

4. Live Whole Health app

The Live Whole Health app can support Veterans interested in taking a more holistic approach to their well-being. It features a variety of digital resources:

• A personal health inventory to help identify your health and wellness goals.
• Virtual coaching.
• Goal tracking tools.
• Opportunities to share your achievements with your care team, friends and family.

5. Annie for Veterans

Annie is a VA text messaging service that empowers Veterans to take an active role in their health care by sending various automated self-care reminders. Some health subscriptions older adults may find beneficial:

• Fall prevention tips – Veterans learn ways to avoid falling.
• Increase physical activity – Veterans can get Whole Health focused motivational/educational messages to encourage exercise for improved health and wellness.

Safe and consistent physical activity is a key component of healthy aging. It’s never too late to start. When Hall is asked what type of activity is best, her answer is always the same: the one you’re going to stick with.

For Senior Health and Fitness Day and beyond, learn about VA’s virtual resources on the Office of Connected Care page to help you get active and meet your health goals! Sign up for the My HealtheVet newsletter to receive valuable health updates in your email.