Harvard Health Content API

New data from the National Poll on Healthy Aging show that most adults ages 50 to 80 are ill prepared for severe weather, long-term power outages, or other emergency situations. Taking action now, including creating an emergency at-home kit and preparing for possible health needs, can avoid stress, expenses, and risks if an emergency happens.

As people age, their sense of balance can sharply decline, which can raise the risk of injuries and even death from falls. Changes in flexibility, muscle strength and power, body sensation, reflexes, and even mental function all contribute to declining balance. Adding balance exercises and multifaceted movements can help.

A review of existing data suggests daily omega-3 supplements may protect against heart attack and death from coronary artery disease. This suggests that supplements might be an alternative for people who have trouble getting enough omega-3s from fish in their diet.

The annual wellness visit, also called a preventive health visit, offers valuable insight for the doctor and patient. For many people, this is the only chance to have an in-depth conversation about their health, address concerns, look at preventive measures, and create health goals and expectations.