If you’re over the age of 60, you’re invited to become your own version of Muhammad Ali or Alysa Liu throughout the month of May, no boxing gloves or ice skates required! The theme of Older Americans Month this year is “Champion Your Health.”

Cornerstones of Healthy Aging

While you’re not fighting for a heavyweight championship belt or gold medal, the older we get, the more precious the prize of good health. As we age, the risk of disease and age-related problems increases.

The Administration for Community Living (ACL), which organizes Older Americans Month, encourages you to take an active role in advocating for your health needs, accessing preventive care and making informed decisions.

Manage Your Health and Advocate for Yourself

You deserve guidance from your providers along your health journey. However, if you don’t communicate effectively, it’s not easy to get the information you need.

Choose a provider you feel comfortable with so that you can easily share what’s on your mind.

Write down questions or concerns before your visit. Bring these notes, along with a current medication list and health records, to your appointment.

Invite a trusted friend or family member to accompany you so that they can ask clarifying questions or remind you later to follow up on your provider’s orders or advice.

Discover more tips in “A Guide for Older Adults, Talking With Your Doctor” from the National Institute on Aging.

Preventive Care and Screenings

If you’re enrolled in Medicare, like most Americans aged 65 or older, many preventive services can be provided to you at no cost. These include exams, shots, lab tests and screenings to prevent health problems or determine effective treatment.

Visit Medicare for a list of preventive services. Make sure to review what is recommended for your age and specific health conditions.

Making Informed Decisions

Making informed decisions is one of the best ways to protect your health and maintain independence. Empower yourself by researching evidence-based approaches to health concerns, scheduling your annual wellness visit and enrolling in programs to stop unhealthy behaviors or addictions, such as smoking.

Also, don’t forget to explore available resources in your community. Get in touch with your Area Agency on Aging to connect with nutrition education, volunteer opportunities and assistance with home repairs, mail delivery, transportation and more.

Remember, nobody will have as personal a stake in your health as you. Honor yourself this month and every month by becoming the champion of your health destiny.

Sources:
Administration for Community Living
Medicare
National Institute on Aging
Ohio Department of Aging