Millennials Can Help Boomer Parents Be Well.

Aging baby boomers who neglect their health and fitness do not just harm themselves, as their lifestyles also affect their adult children, who eventually could end up caring for them-both financially and physically-as their health declines. Of course, that is not the only reason those adult children might feel concerned; they also may like having mom and dad around, and want that to continue for years to come. So, they have a vested interest in encouraging their parents to get fit and stay fit.

However, young adults who cringe at their parents' eating and exercise habits may be reluctant to broach the subject. How can they start such a conversation, and what are some suggestions for healthy living their parents are likely to put into practice?

One thing that might be tempting, but probably will not work, is a harsh lecture, indicates Jaime Brenkus, a fitness coach for Evergreen Wellness, Wichita, Kan., which provides videos and articles to help older adults enjoy healthier lives.

"You don't need to give them a sermon, but you should remind them of how important exercise and healthy eating are, and how much you care about having them around for you and for the grandchildren."

Here are a few starter tips:

Encourage them to drink more water. This may sound basic, but a lot of people do not drink as much water as they should-even though this is a healthy habit that is simple to accomplish. A study by the Centers for...

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