Joy is good for you
DON’T MISS THE GRATITUDE
Life brings its share of challenges — stress, loss and change are part of the journey, especially as we age. But here’s some uplifting news: Joy isn’t just a nice bonus to life; it’s actually good for your health.
Decades of research confirm that experiencing joy, maintaining meaningful connections and living with purpose contribute to longer, healthier lives. When we make room for happiness in our daily routines, we’re investing in our physical and mental well-being.
Small, everyday sources of joy matter. A conversation. A shared laugh or walk in the park. A sense of belonging. These moments support both mental and physical health and remind us that well-being is as much about how we live as how we manage illness.
Many habits that support heart health also help us stay engaged, active and joyful in daily life. Below are some important considerations in heart health — discuss this list with your provider.
Heart health numbers matter
Several key numbers help paint a picture of cardiovascular health: blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar and weight. Monitoring these regularly and discussing them with your provider can help identify risks early and guide treatment if needed. Blood pressure is important
High blood pressure is one of the leading contributors to heart disease and stroke. Because it often causes no noticeable symptoms, it can go undetected for years. Routine monitoring — both during medical visits and at home — can help keep blood pressure within a healthy range.
Living for a healthy heart
Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition and good sleep habits all play a role in heart health. Simple activities such as walking, light strength training and stretching are great. A heart-healthy diet includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats and limits sodium and highly processed foods.
Symptoms to watch for
Chest discomfort, shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, dizziness or pain in the jaw, back or arm should be evaluated promptly. Heart attack symptoms can appear differently in older adults and in men and women — talk to your providers about the differences. If symptoms are sudden or severe, call 911.
Never too late
Healthy habits, preventive care and early treatment can reduce risk at any age. Small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference over time.
Have a happy heart
HEART CARE AT HOME
Sometimes the best place to heal is at home. ChristianaCare’s Hospital Care at Home program delivers hospital-level care where you’re most comfortable. Caregivers offer in-person visits, virtual check-ins, medications, tests and remote vital sign monitoring to keep patients cared for and connected. For most people, this means less stress, a lower risk of infection and a faster recovery in familiar surroundings. Talk to your provider to learn more about the program.
What science says about happiness
Research provides clear evidence of what truly contributes to lasting happiness and health.
Maintaining connection
• Strong relationships matter more than wealth or fame for overall well-being and longevity.
• Social isolation increases mortality risk as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
• People with strong social connections show better cognitive function and slower memory decline as they age.
• Feeling connected to others protects both our bodies and our minds, reducing inflammation and supporting immune function.
SOURCES: Harvard Study of Adult Development; Perspectives on Psychological Science; Johns Hopkins Medicine; Mayo Clinic Health System; UC Davis Greater Good Science Center; JAMA Psychiatry
Reduces cortisol and other stress hormones, helping your body relax and recover.
• Supports cardiovascular health—optimistic people have up to a 35% lower risk of heart disease.
• Strengthens immune function, with positive emotions linked to increased antibody production.
• Assists with pain management and speeds recovery from illness or surgery.
• May increase lifespan — studies show optimistic individuals live 11–15% longer on average.
and meaning
• Can lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline.
• Reduces risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease by up to 23%.
• Enhances overall life satisfaction.
Practicing gratitude
• Leads to better and longer sleep.
• Reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Strengthens relationships and increases social support.
• Improves psychological wellbeing within just a few weeks.
MAKE CONNECTION A PRIORITY
Find a walking buddy—exercise and conversation together
Schedule a weekly phone call with a friend or family member
Chat with neighbors when you see them
Volunteer a few hours a month— helping others boosts your own well-being
Aging joyfully: Practical steps
Cultivating happiness isn’t complicated — it can come from small, consistent practices that add up over time. Here are some ways to bring more joy into your daily life:
Shift your mindset
Notice your thoughts. When you catch yourself dwelling on worries, gently redirect your attention to something you appreciate — your morning coffee, a sunny day or a kind word from a friend. Don’t force optimism; instead balance your perspective.
Stay curious and try new things
• Take up a creative hobby like painting, gardening, or crafting.
• Learn something new—a language, an instrument, or how to use technology.
• Challenge your brain with puzzles, books, or educational videos.
Practice daily gratitude
Each evening, write down three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be big — a comfortable chair, a helpful neighbor or a birdsong all matter.
Spring safety tips
Physical safety
• Watch for slippery surfaces during spring rain.
• Wear sturdy shoes when gardening or walking outdoors.
• Stay hydrated as temperatures rise.
• Check medication storage — some need to be kept cool.
Digital safety
• Be cautious of phone calls asking for personal information.
• Don’t click on suspicious emails or text messages.
• If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• When in doubt, contact the organization directly using a number you look up yourself.
What’s cooking
Luscious Lemon-Strawberry Parfaits
Layered with sun-sweetened strawberries, this cheerful, no-bake dessert features creamy pudding flavored with zippy lemon zest and sweet and tangy lemonade powder. The pudding is given a protein boost with a surprise ingredient — silken tofu, which you’ll never know is there!
INGREDIENTS
SERVES 6
(SERVING SIZE 3⁄4 CUP)
1-ounce package lemon or vanilla sugar-free instant pudding mix
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 serving sugar-free lemonade powder
12 ounces firm silken tofu
3⁄4 cup nonfat ultrafiltered milk
2 cups sliced strawberries
DIRECTIONS
• Combine pudding mix with zest, lemonade powder, tofu and milk in a blender or food processor.
• Process until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed.
• Layer pudding and strawberries among six dessert bowls.
• Chill until ready to serve.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION CALORIES 78; TOTAL FAT 1G; SATURATED FAT .2G; MONOUNSATURATED FAT .2G; POLYUNSATURATED FAT .7G; TRANS FAT 0 G; CHOLESTEROL .6 MG; SODIUM 273MG; POTASSIUM 185MG, TOTAL CARBOHYDRATE 10G; DIETARY FIBER 1G; SUGARS 4G; PROTEIN 6G.
Thank you to our partner ChristianaCare for this recipe. Find more recipes at eBrightHealthACO.org.
My Daily JOY Checklist
Use this simple checklist to track moments of joy each day.
Did something that made me smile or laugh
Connected with someone I care about
Took time to appreciate something beautiful
Did something kind for myself or another
Felt grateful for at least one thing Books about happiness Recommended reading
The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
Two spiritual leaders share their wisdom on finding joy even during difficult times.
For additional copies visit eBrightHealthACO.org to download a print-friendly version.
The Good Life: Lessons from the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness by Robert Waldinger M.D. and Marc Schulz
Ph.D.
Lessons learned from the world’s longest scientific study on happiness.
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
A yearlong experiment in discovering what truly brings happiness, with practical lessons anyone can apply.
Tracking Everyday Gratitude
Take a few moments each day to reflect on these questions. You can write your answers down, share them with a loved one or simply think about them:
What am I grateful for today?
What everyday comfort am I especially thankful for right now?
What recent moment of laughter or happiness do I want to remember?
What ability, skill or insight am I grateful to have gained over the years?
What simple pleasure brings me joy?
What did I learn today?
Remember, happiness and health go hand in hand, and every small step you take toward joy supports your overall well-being. Be kind to yourself, stay connected with those you care about and embrace the opportunities each new day brings.
Daily activities to cultivate joy
Small actions can make a big difference. Try incorporating one or two of these into your routine.
Set a joy intention at the beginning of every day.
Call or text someone you haven’t talked to in a while.
Savor a meal without distractions—notice the flavors and textures.
Start your morning with a few deep breaths and a moment of appreciation.
Listen to your favorite music while doing daily tasks.
Help someone else, even in a small way.
Take a short walk outside, even if it’s just around the block.
Spend 10 minutes on a hobby or activity you enjoy.
End your day by reflecting on one good thing that happened.
From One Beneficiary to Another
A Message from Evelyn
I find that staying positive makes a great difference in my daily life, and I’d love to hear from you. What are your favorite tips for maintaining a positive outlook? What brings you joy on difficult days?
Send your best gratitude tips to Evelyn at info@ebhaco.org and receive a versatile medication bag! Be sure to include your full name and mailing address in your email. What would you like to see more of in future newsletters? Help us create content that serves you.
Learn more about the benefits of being part of an ACO at eBrightHealthACO.org. Or reach out to us at info@ebhaco.org for more details.
This newsletter is from your Primary Care Team and these partners that make up eBrightHealth ACO. Be sure to stay in touch with your Primary Care Team throughout the year to help you Be Well. Stay Well. eBrightHealthACO.org
We’ll see you in the fall! Until then, make it a happy spring. Visit eBrightHealthACO.org to learn about accountable