ABSTRACT
Rural older adults who engage in wellness behaviors experience health benefits and may demonstrate a more positive attitude toward aging than those who do not engage in such behaviors. Wellness is a holistic representation of health that views older adults beyond their physical health to include the emotional, social, and intellectual domains. Positive social connections and rich social networks promote wellness among older adults. Older adults who are engaged socially demonstrate less risk for high blood pressure, obesity, depression, anxiety, Alzheimer’s disease, and death. Physical activity reduces the risk of onset of chronic disease and helps to better manage diseases that already exist. Physical activity also supports older adults’ emotional health and ability to remain independent as they age. Older adults who consume a healthy diet reduce risk and better manage chronic diseases. MyPlate was developed to provide specific dietary recommendations for older adults. MyPlate provides a simple visual to support optimal nutrition for older adults.
