1201: What the Latest Data Reveal About Healthy Aging in America

America’s aging population is creating new priorities for public health, and the latest data show both progress and persistent challenges for older adults. The 14th edition of the America’s Health Rankings Senior Report finds encouraging gains in the workforce caring for older adults, preventive screenings and premature mortality, while also highlighting troubling increases in drug deaths, excessive drinking and suicide among seniors. Today, Rhonda Randall, executive vice president and chief medical officer for United Healthcare Employer and Individual, and a United Health Foundation board member, discusses what the findings mean for state and territorial health officials and why national averages don’t tell the whole story. She explains the importance of examining health data by income, geography, race and ethnicity, and other factors; strengthening the workforce that supports older adults; and addressing social isolation, prevention and access to care. She also makes the case for closer collaboration between public health, primary care and community organizations to support healthy aging — particularly in rural communities, where health outcomes can vary significantly from one place to another.Innovation Advisory Council | ASTHO