The stereotype of grandparents spending their 70s or 80s in a nursing facility is rapidly changing. We now hear stories about seniors who skydive and elders who are actively involved in their communities.
Seniors today are healthier and more active that their grandparents and are staying in their homes longer than ever before.
While healthy eating and regular activity are key to independence in old age, researchers also highlight other important indicators. These include maintaining a sense purpose, using the healthcare system effectively, adapting your home and, perhaps most importantly of all, being socially active with friends and family.
“In our experience, the combination of healthy lifestyle choices and social engagement is critical to people extending their independent living years,”Dr. Philip Painter, chief physician for the organization, said: HumanaHumana’s Chronic Disease Management Program at Home helps almost 1 million people with diabetes, congestive cardiac failure, and other conditions.
Painter says, “Aging at home” means looking beyond the medical procedure and medications, and making use of the health care system efficiently and taking advantage all it has to offer.
Primary care physicians play a key role in the health of patients. They coordinate all aspects of care and oversee and coordinate social engagement as well as unexpected side effects.
For example, some medications can cause a reduction in appetite and decrease in nutrient absorption. Malnourishment can also be caused by loneliness and grief. This could lead to other health problems.
People can also choose health plans that support successful aging at-home. For example, some plans include wellness and exercise programs.
It is a good idea also to seek out experts through senior services agencies. They can assist you in making your home safer by reducing tripping hazards like rugs and cords, installing grab bars, hand rails and lighting.
Humana and other health companies have advanced emergency alarm systems. Humana is testing new technology to allow patients to safely move from hospital to home following surgery. You can be more connected by being open to the many telehealth tools available.
Visit Humana.com/learning-center for additional information and health tips.
