Public Health and Wellness for the Elderly
Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a state of full physical, mental and emotional well being and not just the absence of sickness and disease. Various definitions have been used over the years for various purposes. However, in general, health is associated with having good relationships with family, friends, and other people. It is also associated with being able to participate in society and enjoy life.
The definition of health varies among countries and individuals. In the United States, it has generally been considered to be good health that focuses on the maintenance and growth of the individual; it does not usually define health for the community at large. Most commonly, however, the definition of health in the United States is based on the maintenance of health, which includes well-being. According to this perspective, a healthy individual who suffers from a mental illness is still a healthy individual who is able to contribute to his or her community and live a full life. On the other hand, the definition of health in other countries may focus more on the need to have physical strength and prevent the spread of illnesses such as cancer.
One of the reasons why the definition of health has become so vague is the fact that the average life expectancy of people in the U.S. has been decreasing since the 1970s. Most researchers believe that the decline in life expectancy is due to a combination of unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, lack of exercise, and high cholesterol and tobacco rates. There are many other causes of poor health including stress, a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and an increased risk of heart disease. These factors collectively are believed to be the leading causes of death among the elderly population in the United States. Many researchers believe that the declining health status of older adults is directly related to their decreased ability to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.
In order to maintain good health, older adults need to adopt several healthy behaviors. The first is to adopt a regular exercise program and eat a well balanced diet that is low in fats, carbohydrates, and sugars. This will help to ensure that the elderly have an increased capacity to lose weight. It is also important for the elderly to practice healthy behaviors in terms of smoking and drinking because these behaviors tend to be the cause of several illnesses, including cancer. Adopting several healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise and a good diet, will also help the elderly feel better about themselves and therefore be less likely to suffer a diagnosis of a mental illness or injury related to their lifestyle.
Another way to promote good health for the elderly is through the implementation of public health programs that target several existing and emerging health inequities. Many seniors do not have access to quality healthcare and are forced to forgo basic, preventative medical care. Because of this, they are at a higher risk for developing a number of diseases and illnesses that can lead to financial and health inequities. Public health programs that target these health inequities are designed to promote better health and wellness for all seniors. For example, programs that promote community health are designed to address the issues that impact the elderly in the community and that can lead to health issues.
These programs focus on promoting healthy diet and physical activity as well as screening for unhealthy behaviors and promoting healthy diet and physical activity. Programs geared toward promoting healthy diet and physical activity include community-based initiatives and mass media campaigns. Community-based initiatives include walking, gardening, and other physical activities that build self-esteem, confidence, and social interaction with others. Mass media campaigns include commercials and print ads that promote healthy diet and physical activity. The success of these public health programs relies on the fact that the general public is willing to take steps to improve their overall health and their health and the health of their families. Studies have shown that there are dramatic improvements in the health of the general population when these programs are implemented.