In New National Survey, Socially Engaged Older Americans Report Higher Levels of Good Health

Lawndale News Chicago's Bilingual Newspaper - Health

A new, nationwide survey of adults age 60 and older conducted by leading health and well-being company Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) reveals that aging Americans who are most socially “engaged” report higher levels of good health than respondents who are least engaged. In addition, the most engaged and least engaged respondents showed a significant difference in proactive pursuit of care. Humana conducted a survey to explore seniors’ attitudes and behaviors guiding lifestyle choices and overall health. For this population, the importance of social engagement and the role it may play in perceived levels of health and wellness came to light. In fact, when examining survey results, 88 percent of the most socially engaged group report their health is good to excellent, versus only 70 percent of the least engaged group. “In an age in which isolation is a concern, this survey gives us real-life confirmation that social engagement is truly important when it comes to healthy aging,” said Dr. Yolangel Hernandez-Suarez, vice president and Chief Medical Officer of Humana’s Care Delivery Organization. Respondents reporting higher levels of social engagement also say they take more proactive steps toward improving their overall health and wellness.

Lawndale News Chicago's Bilingual Newspaper - Health

  • For example, a higher percentage of most engaged respondents (83 percent) report getting a physical exam once a year, versus the least engaged respondents (66 percent).
  • The least engaged respondents also are less likely to receive yearly eye exams or dental care when compared with their most engaged counterparts.

In addition, the baseline level of health reported by respondents affects other aspects of their health and wellness journey. Respondents reporting good health are more likely to get a yearly physical exam (83 percent) than least healthy respondents (67 percent). Most healthy respondents are significantly more likely to partake in regular moderate exercise (81 percent) than those who are least healthy (48 percent). The Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan Annual Election Period is now underway, with the Dec. 7, 2017 closing deadline fast-approaching. More information on SEP can be found at www.CMS.gov.) For more information on Medicare, please visit http://www.Medicare.gov or www.Humana.com/Medicare.

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