Medical Care Needs and Options

Falls

are the leading cause of injuries and injury-related deaths and of about 95% of hip fractures for adults 65 and older.

About Older drivers

Almost 90% of people over age 65 still drive but only account for 7% of all accidents. Although accidents by older drivers are more visible in the media, they cause fewer accidents than those under age 24.

Hospital utilization

Older people on average have three times as many hospital stays and for longer periods of time than younger populations.

Exercise as central to health promotion

The benefits of regular aerobic weight-bearing exercise such as brisk walking and strength training are numerous, even for people with chronic illnesses.

Nutrition

A healthy diet has multiple benefits.

For example, a moderate reduction in saturated and trans-fats can reduce cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease.

How does lifestyle practices affect older adults?

• Researchers have found that health promotion initiatives can help empower older adults to take control of their health through increased self-efficacy and self-management.

• Programs can help with increased physical activity, falls management, and health programs that can assist older people with changing behaviors, improving their health status, and reducing the use of hospital services.

Health promotion

Health education and environmental changes are important to enhance people’s ability to improve their well-being, not just manage their diseases.