September is National Healthy Aging Month, making it a great time to show how Medicare can support the well-being of older adults. As the aging population continues to grow, Medicare providers are uniquely positioned to offer comprehensive support that promotes longevity, independence, and quality of life.
Recent statistics highlight the urgency: in 2022, 24% of adults aged 65 and older rated their health as fair or poor. This is a significant increase from the 19% reported among those aged 50 to 64.
By 2040, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to reach 78.3 million. This is more than double the 35 million counted in 2000. These numbers underscore the importance of addressing the complex health needs of this growing demographic.
Medicare providers play an important role in helping older adults. They offer programs and services that support independence. These services encourage preventive care and help seniors access resources for their well-being.
Related: Building Better Senior Fitness Benefits into Medicare Advantage Plans
5 Ways to support beneficiaries during National Health Aging Month and beyond
Here are five key ways Medicare can support healthy aging for beneficiaries:
1. Expand access to preventive services
Preventive care is key to healthy aging. Medicare can help by making it easier to access services that find health issues early. Encouraging beneficiaries to take advantage of personalized wellness programs that encourage healthy habits such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and mental health support, empowers members to make sustainable lifestyle changes that enhance their overall health.
2. Promote fitness programs designed for older adults
Physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and independence in later years. Medicare can promote participation in fitness programs specifically designed for older adults and offer low-impact exercises that support joint health, flexibility, and balance. Providing these fitness benefits and including them in Medicare Advantage plans helps support the long-term health of beneficiaries.
3. Enhance mental health resources
Mental health becomes increasingly important as individuals age, with many facing issues like isolation, anxiety, and depression. Medicare can improve mental health support by covering mental health solutions, which promotes resources like mindfulness programs and guides on everything from stress to resilience.
These options make mental health support easier to access. Encouraging beneficiaries to seek help without stigma is crucial for their overall well-being.
Related: The Link Between Physical Activity and Senior Mental Health
4. Educate on the importance of nutrition
Proper nutrition plays a significant role in healthy aging. Medicare providers can help teach beneficiaries about their nutritional needs by offering a holistic program that provides nutritional guidance and education on healthy eating.
This is especially important for those with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. Providing access to registered dietitians and nutrition counseling, covered by Medicare, helps beneficiaries learn about food choices. These choices support their long-term health.
5. Offer flexibility in health plan options
Each person's health journey is unique. Medicare providers should offer flexible coverage options.
This helps beneficiaries meet their specific needs. This could mean offering plans that provide broader access to specialty care or programs focused on managing chronic diseases. By offering flexible, personalized care options, Medicare can empower older adults to manage their health more effectively.
Supporting healthy aging with FitOn Health
FitOn Health recognizes the evolving needs of Medicare beneficiaries as they age. Our comprehensive health and wellness programs offer fitness, nutrition, and mental health support tailored to older adults. By adding our benefits to Medicare Advantage plans, you can help your beneficiaries get the resources they need. This support will help them age healthily and remain independent.
This National Healthy Aging Month, let's prioritize the health and well-being of older adults by providing them with the tools and care they deserve. Ready to learn how we can help your members thrive as they age? Contact us today to discover how our all-in-one wellness program can support healthier, more independent lives.
