While it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle at any age, many older adults experience a variety of health concerns. As a result of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, this can impact an individual’s overall life style. In 2014, for example, The Commonwealth Fund reported that the United States had the highest chronic health condition rates. Their data showed that 87% of older adults reported that they experienced a minimum of one chronic illness, while 68% reported that they experienced two or more. When older adults take charge of their health, it can make a significant impact.
The Importance of a Healthy Diet
Following a healthy diet can make a difference in an individual’s overall well-being. In addition to consuming at least 1.5 to two servings of fruit every day, it’s also recommended that adults consume between two and 2.5 cups of vegetables. According to recommendations from the Institute of Medicine Dietary Reference, women 50 years of age and older should have 21 grams of fiber on a daily basis. Recommendations for men within this age bracket are 30 grams of fiber.
The Importance of a Positive Attitude
Other ways for older adults to create and maintain a healthier lifestyle include having a positive attitude. When individuals feel good about their physical appearance, for instance, this can make a significant difference. Many older Americans continue to feel positive about their physical appearance as they age. A 2014 Gallup Poll found that 66% of adults within the 65 and older age bracket “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that this was the case with them.
The Importance of Engaging in Meaningful Activities
Living an active life can also make an important impact on overall health and wellness. This includes taking regular trips and vacation and engaging in a wide variety of social activities. The 2014 Gallup Poll showed that 57% of adults over 65 create time for these and other types of excursions.
More and more older adults participate in social media. A 2015 report from the Pew Research Center revealed that during 2005, only two percent of adults used social media. This increased to 11% in 2010, and in 2015, this amount increased to 35%.
The results of a 2014 Gallup Poll showed that 49% of Baby Boomers weren’t planning to retire until they were 66 or older. One out of every ten of the participants predicted that they wouldn’t retire at all. A 2015 CareerBuilder report showed that 54% of workers 60 or older planned to continue working after retirement. During the previous year, this just applied to 45% of workers within that age bracket. While 81% stated they were probably going to work part-time, 19% planned to work full-time.
The Importance of Preventative Care
The flu and pneumonia are considered to be the the seventh leading causes of death for older Americans, according to a 2013 report from The State of Aging and Health in America. Both of these potentially serious health issues have a large chance of being prevented with regular vaccinations.
Deaths related to breast cancer can also be potentially reduced with preventative measures. Regular mammography screening is an integral aspect of this. According to The State of Aging and Health in America’s 2013 report, when women between the ages of 65 to 74 have screenings every two years, it has been demonstrated to reduce the number of deaths due to breast cancer.
Learn More About Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap Insurance
Whether you’re still working, already retired, or are planning your retirement, it’s important to consider your current as well as potential health care expenses. There are a variety of health insurance policies available, such as Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap Insurance.
When considering the benefits of Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap Insurance, you may have several questions. Once you consult with a Medicare Insurance company, you will be able to discuss the differences between Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap Insurance. Before you make a final decision as to whether Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap Insurance would be the best plan for you, be sure to consider the type of coverage you currently need and whether you may need to supplement it in the future.