Social Determinants of Health for the Aging

Author

Seniors Blue Book Greater Pittsburgh Area

Posted on

Nov 21, 2023

Book/Edition

Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

Seniors Blue Book of Greater Pittsburgh was proud to be one of the In-Kind sponsors of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Partnership for Aging conference last week where local experts gathered to discuss Social Determinants of Health for the Aging.

The Keynote Speaker was Rep. Arvind Venkat. As a physician and legislator, he has a unique understanding and insight into the factors that support the health and well-being of our community. 

What are Social Determinants and why should you care??

Social Determinants are the conditions in which we live, work, play, worship, and age.


If you had to guess, how significant are these factors in our health? 10%? 20%? 30%? More?

These 5 factors influence up to 40% of our health outcomes!

State governments play a crucial role in addressing the social determinants of health by implementing policies and programs that can significantly impact the health and well-being of older adults.

So what can we do? In addition to voting and communicating with our local state representatives, here are some practical tips that you can do to incorporate these key needs into your daily life:

  • ·         Stay connected with loved ones: schedule regular phone calls, video chats, or in-person visits with friends and family.
  • ·         Engage in social activities: join a senior center, take up a new hobby, or volunteer in your community.
  • ·         Maintain a healthy diet: eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit processed foods and sugary drinks.
  • ·         Get regular exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most days of the week.
  • ·         Seek preventative care: schedule regular check-ups with your doctor and dentist.

You can significantly improve your overall health and well-being by taking small steps each day. And don’t hesitate to seek help from caregivers, healthcare providers, or community organizations if you need additional support.

Embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life!


This article was written by Patty Toner, Director of Marketing for Seniors Blue Book of Greater Pittsburgh.

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