As we age, staying healthy isn’t just about preventing illness—it’s about enjoying our lives to the fullest. Whether that means taking a morning walk, gardening, dancing at family gatherings, or simply feeling well enough to run errands with confidence, the goal is simple: to stay active, independent, and happy.

That’s where preventive care comes in.

Preventive care isn’t just about catching medical issues early. It also helps you maintain your mobility, strength, and mental well-being, so you can keep doing the things you love, on your own terms.

We focus on whole-person care, meaning we treat your physical and emotional health as connected and equally important.

What is preventive care?

Preventive care includes regular check-ups, screenings, vaccines, and lifestyle guidance that help identify and manage health concerns before they become serious. It also includes talking with your doctor about how you're feeling, how well you’re sleeping, how active you are, and even your mood and stress levels.

Some examples of preventive care include:

• Blood pressure and cholesterol checks
• Diabetes screenings
• Bone density tests
• Fall risk assessments
• Vaccinations (like flu and shingles)
• Mental health screenings
• Support with diet, exercise, and sleep habits

Why preventive care is so important as you age

As we grow older, we naturally face a higher risk of certain conditions like high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, and even depression. But preventive care can help you:

• Catch issues early
• Stay on top of medications
• Strengthen your body and mind
• Prevent falls and hospital stays
• Improve your energy, mood, and overall quality of life

By working closely with your doctor, you can build a plan that supports your long-term health goals, not just your current symptoms.

Staying active is good for the body and the mind

One of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health is to move your body. Whether it's a daily walk, stretching exercises, chair yoga, or dancing to your favorite songs, movement keeps your muscles strong and your mind sharp.

Here are 4 ways regular physical activity helps your mental health, too:

1. It boosts “feel-good” chemicals: When you exercise, your brain releases chemicals like endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine—natural mood boosters that help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
2. It improves sleep and reduces stress: Getting regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. It also helps your body process stress more effectively, leaving you feeling calmer and more balanced during the day.
3. It sharpens your mind: Exercise has been shown to improve memory, focus, and attention, which is especially important as we age. Even a short daily walk can make a difference in how clearly you think and feel.
4. It builds confidence: When you feel physically strong and capable, it boosts your self-esteem. Staying active helps you feel more independent and in control of your body and your choices.

In fact, studies have found that exercise can be just as effective as antidepressants or talk therapy for some people dealing with depression or anxiety. That’s powerful.

How preventive care supports physical and mental wellness

We understand that your mental and emotional health are just as important as your physical health. That’s why our doctors:

• Ask about how you're feeling emotionally, not just physically
• Help you create an activity plan that fits your abilities and goals
• Offer support for managing stress, anxiety, or sadness
• Connect you with behavioral health resources if needed
• Work with you to stay mobile, independent, and confident

We believe you shouldn’t have to wait until something goes wrong to take care of yourself. Preventive care helps you stay ahead of problems and focus on what matters most—your quality of life.

What you can do today

You don’t need to train for a marathon to benefit from movement or preventive care. Just a few small steps can make a big difference in your overall well-being.

Start with these simple actions:

1. Schedule your next check-up, even if you feel fine.
2. Talk honestly with your doctor about how you’re feeling physically and emotionally.
3. Ask about screenings or vaccinations that can help prevent illness.
4. Move your body each day in a way that feels good: stretch, walk, dance, or garden.
5. Make time to rest and recharge, especially if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

You deserve care that cares

Aging well isn’t just about living longer. It’s about living better. That means feeling strong, being able to move comfortably, thinking clearly, and waking up ready to enjoy your day.

We’re here to support your journey every step of the way. Our doctors take the time to get to know you, help you stay ahead of potential problems, and guide you toward a healthier, happier life, inside and out.

Because when you feel good in your body and mind, you’re not just aging—you’re thriving.

If you aren’t a patient, we want to meet you! Click here to find a location near you and learn more about what it’s like to receive care with us.