By Lisa Harris, MD
Navigating health after 55 is about being informed, staying proactive, and working closely with your healthcare provider.
As senior vice president and chief medical officer at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, and a former practicing physician, I’ve seen first hand how crucial it is for individuals to be proactive about their health and healthcare.
Navigating this stage of life comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities, and being informed can make all the difference.
I’d like to share with you the top 10 things people over the age of 55 should be aware of when it comes to their health.
1. Don’t overlook the power of preventive care. Wellness visits and regular health screenings are not just a precaution, they are a necessity. Wellness checks provide an opportunity to identify and address health issues, stay on top of preventive care and review and adjust your health plan to ensure you stay healthy and active year-round. Screenings for conditions like cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis can lead to early detection and better outcomes.
2. Get vaccinated. Staying up to date with vaccinations, like flu, pneumonia and shingles shots can prevent severe illnesses.
3. Your mental health matters. Do you or a loved one have behavioral health concerns? Mental health is just as important as physical health. Mental health concerns may often present as or worsen chronic physical health complaints. Depression, anxiety and cognitive decline can occur later in life, and early intervention can make a significant impact if dealing with these and many other health issues.
4. A healthy diet and weight management. Eating right becomes even more important as we age. A balanced diet helps manage weight, supports immune function, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in people over 55, but it’s largely preventable. Staying active, eating a heart-healthy diet and regular check-ups are critical.
5. Stay active and move daily. Movement is medicine. Regular physical activity can help maintain mobility, flexibility and balance, reducing the risk of falls; a concern for those over 55.
6. Get plenty of sleep and rest. Quality sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for good health. Addressing sleep disorders and establishing a healthy sleep routine can significantly impact overall health and increase your physical and mental capacity.
7. Are you ready for retirement? Annual financial check-ins are vital to ensure you are on track for a secure retirement and prepared for unexpected expenses. These check-ins provide an opportunity to adjust financial strategies, optimize savings and make informed decision that can help maintain financial stability and peace of mind throughout retirement.
8. Estate and end-of-life planning. It’s never too early to start thinking about your future when it comes to your end-of-life wishes. This can be difficult to talk about but can also provide peace of mind for your family and loved ones.
Here are a few things to consider:
• Do you understand your options from advanced directive to long-term care planning?
• Do you have a will?
• Do you have designated beneficiaries?
• Do you have a durable power of attorney (POA) that allows you to designate someone to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so?
• Do you have medical orders for life-sustaining treatment (MOLST)?
9. Maintain social connections. It’s important to stay in contact with people to reduce feelings of isolation and to support emotional well-being. Regular social interactions can boost cognitive function, lower the risk of depression and contribute to overall longevity and a higher quality of life.
10. Get the perks. Don’t miss all the great benefits and discounts that come with AARP membership. From travel deals to leisure activities, these benefits help create a balanced lifestyle that combines relaxation, adventure, and financial savings, all of which contribute to overall happiness and well-being.
As you navigate life after 55, remember that staying proactive about your health is one of the most important things you can do. Understanding your healthcare needs, from regular screenings to managing your physical and mental well-being, empowers you to make informed choices and live well. Take charge of your health now and set the stage for a vibrant, healthy future. Your health is your greatest asset, take care of it with the attention it deserves.
Lisa Harris, MD, is senior vice president and chief medical officer at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.
