Older Americans Seek Meaning and New Experiences in Retirement Years

A UnitedHealthcare survey found almost 70 percent of Americans 62 and older named their physical health most important as they age, followed by cognitive health (16 percent), social health (13 percent), and financial health (6 percent), reports Business Wire . Nearly all respondents were concerned with ending up ill or hospitalized. Most have made lifestyle changes to improve their health, mainly through diet and exercise, while 56 percent are trying to sustain or improve their mental health. Respondents said the next stage of their lives is a time to search for novel experiences via travel, community involvement, or exercise. Other high-priority goals include better health, socialization, and continued employment. "We have a unique opportunity to help these people forge a new path and redefine aging," said Ben Kehl with UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement. "Understanding the goals of our members enables us to design and deliver programs and services that will help them achieve those goals, whether that means staying active, improving health, or navigating complex healthcare needs."