September marks Healthy Aging Month, a national observance designed to focus on the positive aspects of growing older, encouraging individuals to take charge of their well-being and lead healthy, fulfilling lives as they age. This initiative was first established in 1992 by Carolyn Worthington, editor-in-chief of Healthy Aging® Magazine, with the goal of shifting the narrative around aging. Rather than focusing on inevitable decline, Healthy Aging Month promotes proactive steps people can take to stay vibrant, both physically and mentally, in later years.
With the world’s aging population growing rapidly, it’s more important than ever to focus on strategies for healthy aging. According to the United Nations, by 2050, one in six people in the world will be over the age of 65, compared to one in eleven in 2019. In the U.S., the Administration on Aging reports that the population of individuals aged 65 and older is expected to double from 52 million in 2018 to nearly 95 million by 2060. These figures make it clear: we need to prioritize healthy aging now.
How to Age Healthily: Proven Strategies
The key to aging well lies in maintaining a balance between physical, mental, and emotional health. Here are some proven strategies for healthy aging:
- Stay Active: Regular exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and improve cognitive function. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week for older adults, combined with muscle-strengthening exercises on two or more days per week.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Nutrition plays a critical role in aging well. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help prevent many age-related illnesses. A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging found that adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet was associated with slower cognitive decline in older adults.
- Stay Socially Connected: Maintaining strong social ties is crucial for emotional well-being and longevity. Research from the Harvard Study of Adult Development highlights the profound impact of relationships on aging, with findings suggesting that individuals with strong social connections tend to live longer and enjoy better health.
- Manage Stress and Mental Health: Chronic stress can contribute to numerous health issues, from cardiovascular disease to cognitive impairment. Activities like meditation, mindfulness, and regular relaxation techniques can improve both mental and physical health.
- Preventive Healthcare: Regular check-ups and preventive screenings can catch health issues before they become severe. Staying up to date with vaccinations, cancer screenings, and health assessments helps individuals stay ahead of potential risks, as well as taking your prescribed medications on time, every time.
How Clarest Health Supports Healthy Aging
At Clarest Health, we’re committed to Advancing Patient Health at Every Step—and this commitment includes helping individuals age in the healthiest, most comfortable ways possible. Through innovative pharmacy solutions, we ensure that patients receive the care and support they need, whether they are in long-term care facilities or aging at home.
MTMPath: Empowering Long-Term Care Facilities
Our MTMPath program is designed to support pharmacies in providing comprehensive medication therapy management (MTM) services. MTMPath helps pharmacies assess medication regimens to ensure that patients are receiving the right treatments and dosages, reducing the risk of adverse drug interactions or unnecessary medications, which are critical for aging populations who may be managing multiple chronic conditions.
In addition, our compliance packaging ensures that patients receive medications in clear, organized doses, reducing the chances of missed or incorrect medications. This service is especially valuable for older adults who might face challenges with Medication Management due to cognitive or physical impairments.
CareFil Rx: Aging Comfortably at Home
For those who wish to age in place, Clarest Health’s CareFil Rx offers a solution that makes managing multiple medications easy, bringing comprehensive pharmacy services directly to the home. Our flexible, comprehensive services integrate technology, human engagement, and proven processes to offer quality and convenience at every step. CareFil Rx provides patients with home-delivered medications, giving them the freedom and independence to stay in their familiar surroundings while receiving the care they need. Paired with MTM services and easy-to-use tear-strip medication pouches, CareFil Rx helps individuals manage their health with ease, supporting not only physical well-being but also peace of mind for both patients and caregivers.
Committed to Advancing Health at Every Step
Healthy aging is about taking proactive steps to maintain quality of life as we grow older. At Clarest Health, we’re dedicated to empowering patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike with the tools and resources they need to make that journey as seamless as possible. Whether through innovative medication management programs like MTMPath, home-care services through CareFil Rx, or compliance packaging that simplifies treatment regimens, Clarest Health is here to support every step of the aging process.
As we celebrate Healthy Aging Month, let’s continue to focus on how we can all age gracefully and healthily, equipped with the best care possible.