Dear AFSPA Member, 

Welcome to September! This is a month of new beginnings and changes. The return to school, work, and daily routines may seem daunting, but it’s also a time of renewed focus and purpose. This is a great time to reflect on our goals and set clear intentions for the remainder of the year. Whether it’s adjusting areas of our lives that have fallen off track or simply embracing the calm before the storm, September offers a chance to recharge and refocus. Let’s approach this month with enthusiasm and optimism, knowing that great things are on the horizon. 

Back to School 

As you prepare for back-to-school, don’t forget the importance of immunizations in protecting your child’s health and promoting overall wellness within the school community. Here are some essential tips and strategies from our recent blog to ensure a safe and healthy academic year. Listen to our recent podcast and AFSPA Live Q&A discussing mental wellness and going back to school. 

September is Life insurance Awareness Month 

Life Insurance Awareness Month is a great time to review your policies and make sure you have the coverage you need to protect your loved ones. Life insurance provides financial security for your family in the event of your unexpected passing. It’s important to understand the different types of life insurance available and choose a policy that fits your specific needs and budget. Don’t wait until it’s too late – take the time this month to ensure your family’s future is protected. Join us for a webinar on Sep 13th to learn about the importance of life insurance. Don’t miss out on this informative session. If you want to learn more about AFSPA’s life insurance options, you can visit afspa.org/life.  

Age is Just a Number – Own It! 

September is Healthy Aging Month, and it’s a wonderful time to celebrate this stage of life. Age truly is just a number, and we can feel vibrant and youthful at any age. However, it’s understandable that some people may feel older than they are, but there are ways to combat this feeling. Simple steps like nourishing your body with a balanced diet, staying active, and thinking positively can help you age gracefully. It’s never too late to start taking care of yourself.  

Rather than seeing aging as a negative, it’s important to embrace it as a natural part of life. You’ve gained so much experience and wisdom over the years, and that’s something to be celebrated. Every day is a precious gift, and it’s important to make the most of it. With a positive attitude and self-care, you can lead a fulfilling life at any age. 

As women age, they may face various health concerns, such as osteoporosis and menopause. Fortunately, for those enrolled in the Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP), new support programs are set to launch in 2024 that can provide assistance during perimenopause and menopause. By focusing on your health and seeking support, you can navigate this challenging time with greater ease. Rest assured that these programs are designed to offer the help you need to thrive during this phase of life. 

World Alzheimer’s Month 

It is crucial to recognize and address the risk factors associated with the expected tripling of people living with dementia by 2050. The campaign theme for World Alzheimer’s Month 2023, ‘Never too early, never too late,’ focuses on risk reduction, emphasizing its role in delaying and preventing dementia onset, including those who have already been diagnosed. Caregivers of loved ones with dementia face a challenging responsibility, requiring patience, compassion, and understanding. It is important to prioritize self-care and seek out resources for support. Discover the support programs offered by FSBP that can assist with managing this illness and provide guidance for caregivers. 

Stay Connected 

Please continue to connect with us to learn more about how you can maximize your benefits and coverage through our blogs, weekly podcasts, social media platforms, and our free educational webinars. You can also read past issues of our newsletters on our website, which consist of Plan updates and other important health topics and information.  

As always, thank you for your trust and for giving AFSPA the opportunity to serve you!  

To Your Health, 

Paula S. Jakub, RHU
CEO, AFSPA