As a mature adult living in your home, you know the importance of keeping healthy to maintain your independence. But do you ever wonder how your efforts (and those of your friends) stack up to mature adults elsewhere in the country? When it comes to health in older adults, how does Ohio compare?

According to the United Health Foundation’s 2013 Senior Report, which evaluates the health of mature adults across the U.S., Ohio is the 28th healthiest state for adults 65 and older. The Buckeye State, the Report indicated, offered these strengths: low prevalence of underweight mature adults, low prevalence of activity-limiting arthritis, and a high-percentage of credible drug coverage.

Ohio’'s biggest challenges, according to the Report, are a high prevalence of obesity, a high rate of preventable hospitalizations, and a low percentage of social support. In this blog, we tackle each of these challenges, discussing how you can keep healthy in your home.

Prevent Obesity

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Obesity occurs when you take in more calories than you burn through exercise and normal daily activities.” Most mature adults need fewer calories than their younger counterparts, says eatright.org. (Click the link to discover average calorie levels for mature adults.) Obesity usually results from a combination of causes and contributing factors, including inactivity, unhealthy diet and eating habits, certain medications (including antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, diabetes medications, antipsychotic medications, steroids, and beta blockers), and even a lack of sleep.

“The good news,” the Mayo Clinic says, “is that even modest weight loss can improve or prevent the health problems associated with obesity.” Stay healthy (or get yourself back to a healthy weight) by eating right and beginning a regular exercise routine today!

Prevent Hospitalization

Outside of physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals, few people enjoy visiting the hospital. To lower your risk of hospitalization, follow these tips:

• Visit all of your physicians regularly. This includes, but is not limited to, your geriatrician, optometrist, and otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor).
• Learn to properly take and manage your medication. (Also learn to properly dispose of unused medication.)
• Decrease your likeliness of falling in the home by speaking with your physician, removing possible falling hazards, investing in practical footwear, and improving your balance with exercise.

Get Social

In today’'s connected and bustling world, there’'s no reason any person should feel isolated. Get to know members of your community (and challenge your brain!) by seeking out new experiences and hobby groups. Or reconnect with old friends by volunteering or exercising together. If you’'re more of a homebody, explore your options for socializing online on group forums or social media networks like Facebook.

By implementing these suggestions, you and other Ohioans, can keep healthy in your home. For more information on understanding your cognitive, mental, and emotional health, download this free guide.