Introduction
As a doctor, I understand the importance of proper nutrition for seniors. Eating the right foods can help seniors stay healthy and active. Unfortunately, many seniors don’t know what foods are best for them. That’s why I’m here to help. In this article, I’m going to provide some tips on how seniors over 65 should plan for their health needs. I’ll explain which foods are best for them to eat and which ones they should avoid. With the right diet, seniors can stay healthy and enjoy a long, active life.
I’m a Doctor and Here’s How Patients Over 65 Should Plan For Their Health Needs — Eat This Not That
As a doctor, I’m often asked by my patients over 65 how they should plan for their health needs. It’s important to understand that as we age, our bodies require different types of nutrition and care. Here are some tips on how to plan for your health needs as you age.
Eat This, Not That
When it comes to nutrition, it’s important to focus on eating foods that are nutrient-dense and low in calories. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fat. Eating a balanced diet will help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
Stay Active
Physical activity is important for everyone, but especially for those over 65. Regular exercise can help improve your balance, strength, and flexibility, as well as reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most days of the week. This can include walking, swimming, biking, or any other activity that gets your heart rate up.
Get Regular Check-Ups
It’s important to get regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your health. This includes regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks, as well as screenings for cancer and other diseases. Your doctor can also help you manage any chronic conditions you may have, such as diabetes or heart disease.
Stay Connected
Staying connected with family and friends is important for your mental and emotional health. Make time to socialize with friends and family, and stay involved in activities that you enjoy. This can help reduce stress and improve your overall wellbeing.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
It’s important to take care of your mental health as you age. Make sure to get enough sleep, practice relaxation techniques, and talk to your doctor if you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Taking care of your mental health can help you stay healthy and active as you age.
Conclusion
As you age, it’s important to plan for your health needs. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, getting regular check-ups, staying connected, and taking care of your mental health are all important steps to take. By following these tips, you can ensure that you stay healthy and active as you age.
By Vivek Garg, M.D., MBA, Chief Medical Officer for Humana’s Primary Care Organization
Our health needs change as we age, especially for seniors who often manage multiple chronic conditions and may develop physical limitations due to common conditions such as arthritis. To help get ahead of these issues, I talk to my senior patients about setting up a plan for healthy aging, including what signs of declining health to watch for, what they can do to improve their health, and how to pick an insurance plan that covers the medical care they need.
For individuals aged 65 and over, as well as those living with disabilities, this occurs during the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan Annual Election Period (AEP) – which runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 64% of seniors are managing two or more chronic health conditions. When living with multiple chronic conditions, it’s critical to keep regular check-ups with doctors, so they are aware of any health changes or side effects from medications. To avoid forgetting appointments, ask your doctor’s office about email and text alerts to remind you of upcoming appointments. Should you have difficulty getting to doctors’ offices, talk to your physician about the possibility of telehealth appointments so you can still communicate with them about any concerns. Here are five key considerations I share with my Medicare-eligible patients as they prioritize healthy aging.
Many individuals start to experience a decline in vision and hearing as they age. In fact, a recent poll found nearly 9 out of 10 adults who are 50-80 years old require glasses or contacts, and according to the CDC, nearly 1 in 3 seniors over 65 have difficulty hearing.
Dental care for seniors also should not be overlooked, as oral health is integral to overall health and well-being. It’s crucial to maintain routine visits with these specialists and look for health plans that cover all three – vision, hearing, and dental – or have innovative benefits like a flex allowance.
Driving can become challenging and even dangerous for those with vision or hearing issues, as well as individuals with decreased motor skills or cognitive decline. If driving is no longer a safe option, I recommend seniors communicate with family, friends, or neighbors for assistance.
If you are unable to get transportation assistance from those in your support system, you can also check your health insurance plan.
Many seniors do not realize their insurance plans may cover home healthcare services, which is another excellent option for those with transportation issues or seniors simply looking for an easier way to access healthcare services.
Some companies, such as Heal, will send a primary care physician to visit you in the comfort of your home, while others – like CenterWell Home Health – provide assistance for acute issues like managing chronic health conditions and recovering from hospital stays.
Regular exercise is one of the most vital aspects of healthy aging, as it benefits your physical health, helps to combat cognitive decline, and may help prevent memory loss conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Seniors can stay active by going for walks around the neighborhood, lifting moderate weights, or even playing a low-impact sport with others.
Some health plans include gym memberships, allowing you to continue your exercise program or start incorporating physical fitness into your routine at a lower cost. Individuals should consult with their doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.
One of the most important decisions you can make for your health is your insurance coverage. Given the number of plan options available and factors to consider, it is understandable that Medicare-eligible individuals can be overwhelmed when evaluating plan options during the AEP. However, it’s important to remember you’re not alone.
Make your checklist of what benefits you need in a plan and turn to credible resources like Medicare.gov or licensed insurance agents who can address your questions and help you narrow down the plan that’s best for your unique needs by the Dec. 7 deadline.