RALEIGH -- By 2030, the number of older Americans will more than double. The growing population places big demands on the public health system. That's why doctors are encouraging older adults to get screenings, get active and get a positive attitude.
It may not stir up a sweat, but for older adults, line dancing is one way to stay active. Every step means stronger joints, more energy, and a better mood. Those are all things doctors say are crucial to healthy aging.
Elliot Berkowitz gets his heart rate up with his dog, Butter. The 72-year-old was diagnosed with two different cancers.
“It was just before Christmas, I guess it would be close to five years now,” Berkowitz recalled.
By 2030, the number of older Americans will more than double. The growing population places big demands on the public health system.
Since then, Berkowitz made a choice to eat healthy and stay active mentally and physically. With the elderly population expected to grow to 70 million in the next 25 years, health experts say smart choices are critical to the future health care system.
"That is the same population as France so it's like we're going to have an entire country within this country with people over 65,” explained Dr. Martin Janis.
Dr. Janis says older adults need to abide by much of the same recommendations as for younger Americans. That includes at least 30 minutes of physical activity several days a week, eating high-fiber foods and three dairy servings a day. It also means getting regular health screenings for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers, osteoporosis, diabetes and depression.
But Dr. Janis says the key ingredient is attitude. “I believe that really one of the secrets to aging in a healthy way is to wake up everyday with something exciting to do with a goal with a purpose, to have interest in things. Once you're in a situation like that, you look at your medical care as a means to an end."
For Berkowitz, staying positive gives him staying power. The grandfather of six still works at a local grocery store while operating his own errand running business. He says age is just a number.
"My attitude is nothing's gonna stop me."
Health experts say older adults who aren't active should ask their health care provider about ways to safely increase the amount of physical activity each week.
Health experts say older adults who aren't active should ask their health care provider about ways to safely increase the amount of physical activity each week.
For tips on healthy aging, visit HealthyAging.net.