America's Benefit Specialist August-September 2022

MEDICARE MATTERS

factors for heart disease. Cardiovascular fit ness also reduces the risk of stroke, another common health problem for seniors. Improved Muscular Fitness: Working out not only strengthens bones but also improves muscle mass and flexibility, which helps prevent injury as we age, making our bodies stronger overall (and reducing falls). Regular physical activity also increases bone density—another important factor in preventing osteoporosis (a condition where bones become weaker). Improved Joint Mobility: Joints wear down over time with normal use; however, consistent movement keeps them lubricat ed and flexible so they don’t stiffen up like rusty hinges. Plus, regular movement boosts circulation throughout our bodies—includ ing our joints—which helps us feel better all around.

One way this happens is through pre ventative care: When people become more aware of the importance of good health (including mental health), they’re likely to make lifestyle changes that keep them out of emergency rooms and doctors’ offices— which means less money spent on emergen cy-room visits and doctor visits by patients and insurers alike. Better wellness programs mean fewer illnesses developing into serious ones down the line. IMPACT OF THESE BENEFITS ON SENIORS BATTLING CHRONIC ILLNESSES Studies have shown that regular physical ac tivity can help improve health and quality of life, even for people with chronic conditions. Regular physical activity can help prevent or delay many of the health problems common in older adults. It can also improve mental health, which is especially important since

poor mental health increases the risk for some physical illnesses (like heart disease). For example, a study published in 2015 found that after only six months of moder ate-intensity walking (brisk walking), study participants had significant reductions in blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as increased feelings of well-being—regard less of their age or whether or not they suf fered from chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. When it comes to Medicare, there is a lot more to this benefit than just the gym mem bership you get through Medicare Part B: Improved Cardiovascular Fitness: Exercise can help keep the heart and lungs healthy by improving their ability to deliver oxygen throughout the body. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among older Americans, but regular exercise has been shown to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which are important risk

Hundreds of women from across the country recently gathered in Ohio for the Ms. Medicare conference.

For information about next year’s event, visit www.msmedicare.org.

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