Commit to Getting the Care You Need as You Age
By THE JOHN A . HARTFORD FOUNDATION
Older adults in America are living longer lives and will outnumber people under the age of 18 by nearly 500,000 by 2034 , according to the U . S . Census Bureau .
However , living longer does not automatically mean living healthier or happier . In fact , nearly 61 % of people in America aged 65 and older live with chronic conditions , according to the National Institutes of Health ; and a report from the National Academies of Sciences , Engineering and Medicine found nearly one in four older adults are considered to be socially isolated .
Research published in “ Health Affairs ” indicates that people who advocate for their own care feel more empowered . The age-friendly health systems approach can help older adults take control of their well-being and demand care that helps them maintain independence by making sure their doctors know their needs and preferences ; also called “ what matters .”
Just as the name implies , age-friendly care prioritizes what matters most to each individual older adult and helps meet goals such as daily walks around the neighborhood or cooking favorite meals . To get started , consider these four essential elements of age-friendly care from The John A . Hartford Foundation to discuss with your doctor :
WHAT MATTERS . As people age , what matters most to them might change . It is important to share concerns , goals , wishes , needs and experiences with your health care providers . What matters also includes endof-life care goals and preferences .
MEDICATION . Many older adults take multiple medications , which can cause side effects and , in turn , impact daily living . Honest conversations with doctors about medications , their interactions and side effects can ensure treatment plans are optimizing quality of life .
MENTATION . Older adults are at higher risk for dementia , depression and delirium , and conversations with medical providers about changes in memory or mood and annual screenings for dementia and depression can lower the risk .
MOBILITY . Staying active can help older adults maintain health and independence . Talking to health care providers about mobility concerns can identify personalized tips to improve strength , flexibility and balance .
Healthy aging is possible when the patient and care team are on the same page with the same plan in mind . For ideas on how to start these conversations , visit johnahartford . org / agefriendly .
DENTON COUNTY • 39