Falling into September

There's a subtle change in the air. The sunlight seems brighter yet different. You can almost smell the change in the leaves. September is here, and with it come the early changes of Autumn.

While adults may welcome Autumn, children may not be fond of this time of year because it marks the end of summer and the return to school. This means homework, strict routines, and no more summer days of playing and hanging out. Parents can help with this change by focusing on routines and providing emotional support. Transitioning to Autumn is easier when there is something to look forward to. Plan fall activities like apple picking, visiting a pumpkin patch, taking a scenic drive to see the fall foliage, or going to a fall festival. Enjoy the shifting foliage by taking scenic hikes or walks in local parks.

September includes several important observances, including the 25th Anniversary of 911 (we must never forget), the Jewish holidays (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur), Prostate cancer awareness, Ovarian cancer awareness, and World Alzheimer’s Month.

The CDC focuses on four important health issues in September:

·     Healthy aging, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining health and wellness as individuals age;

·     Sickle cell disease awareness educates the public about this disease, and available resources for those affected;

·      Substance use recovery focuses on resources and support for individuals struggling with substance use disorders;

·     HIV/AIDS awareness is dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging testing, prevention, and treatment options available to the public.

In September, we should all concentrate on functional fitness and daily outdoor walks to protect joint mobility and long-term vitality; eat well by keeping our plates full of healthy foods; keep cognitive function sharp through reading and/or creative hobbies.

You may want to participate in National Preparedness Month in September, which is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This program encourages us to create emergency plans and kits. Being prepared can enhance our safety against potential disasters. According to Ready.gov, there are four key actions you can take to prepare for disasters:

·     Know your risk - Know what could happen where you and your family live;

·     Make a family emergency plan – This can help you reduce stress, save time and money before the next disaster or emergency occurs;

·     Build an emergency supply kit - Having enough food, water and medicine can help you stay safe and comfortable until help arrives. Build a go-bag with the essentials you may need;

·     Get involved in your community by taking action to prepare for emergencies - Emergencies can happen fast, and emergency responders aren’t always nearby. You may be able to save a life by taking simple actions immediately. You can take a first aid class through many organizations in our community, such as the Red Cross and the American Heart Association.

As of September 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have made several updates regarding vaccine recommendations and public health guidelines, particularly focusing on COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations for various age groups and health conditions. The CDC anticipates a comparable number of hospitalizations for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV similar to last season. Significant changes were made to the childhood immunization schedule without prior consultation with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Speak with your doctor about this year’s vaccine recommendations.

There is something about Autumn in September that feels bittersweet. Every sunrise comes a little later and the nights are getting cooler. We realize that this time of year is ending, and we wish we could extend those days of early morning light and lingering dusk. The Italian poet Cesare Pavese once said: “We do not remember days, we remember moments”. Make great memories and have a great September!

The natural healing force within each one of us is the greatest force in getting well. – Hippocrates

James McGuinness, M.D., is a Family Physician in Middletown and is the Medical Director Emeritus of the Parker Family Health Center in Red Bank