October 2026

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is seeking written comments from the public to help inform the development of new, science-based guidance related to steps and muscle-strengthening activity. This guidance will supplement the recommendations featured in the current 2nd edition of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.

Healthy aging is a lifelong process shaped by individual choices, opportunities, and the environments where people live. By challenging assumptions about growing older and recognizing the strengths and contributions people bring at every stage of life, we can support health, connection, participation, and well-being—and help create environments and communities where everyone has opportunities to thrive.

Celebrated each October, Health Literacy Month is the perfect time to take action to advance health literacy in your organization and in your community. Healthy People 2030 identifies health literacy as a social determinant of health, or a key non-medical factor that affects health, well-being, and quality of life. That’s why every health professional and organization has a responsibility to improve health literacy.