Three ways older adults can maintain physical health and mental well-being

Here are three ways older adults can maintain their physical and mental well-being and safety:

1. Stay active

Regular exercise can help prevent falls by improving your leg strength and balance. Exercise can also improve your mental health, as it reduces anxiety, boosts self-esteem and improves cognitive function.

Regence Medicare Advantage plans include the no-cost Silver&Fit Healthy Aging and Exercise Program. Members can enjoy access to thousands of fitness centers nationwide and a wide variety of fitness options and healthy-aging resources. Learn more and find a participating fitness center near you on the Silver&Fit website.

2. Avoid falls

Falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related death for adults ages 65 and older in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many falls can be prevented. Ways to lower your chances of falling include:

• Remove things you could trip over (like small rugs, books, clothes and shoes) from your floors and stairs.
• Use handrails and improve the lighting in your home to make it easier to see when you’re walking.
• Install grab bars in your bathroom next to and inside the tub and next to the toilet.
• Learn more ways to make your home safe to prevent falls.
• Keeping your body physically strong may help prevent mobility issues and potential falls. Watch these Healthwise videos for maintaining and building core strength, leg strength, plus other tips to prevent falls.

You could talk to your personal doctor about other ways you can reduce your risk of falling. Many Regence Medicare Advantage plans, with the exception of Oregon Medicare PPO plans, offer incentive dollars through our Healthy Rewards program for members who talk to their doctor about falls prevention.

3. Stay connected

Connecting with people plays a vital role in health and well-being, so continue finding opportunities to connect — even if that means phone calls or video chats. Here are a few ways you could connect with others:

• Join an exercise class, such as those offered at fitness centers participating in the Silver&Fit program.
• Join activities at your local senior center.
• Seek volunteer opportunities, such as helping at the local hospital or animal shelter. You could also get involved with a service group like Kiwanis or Lions Club.

Y0062_2024safetytips_C