As the U.S. population ages, ensuring equitable health care for all older adults becomes more urgent—especially as people of color are projected to make up nearly half of adults 65 and older by 2060. While Medicare offers broad coverage, racial and ethnic disparities in treatment, communication, and access still persist, often rooted in longstanding social and economic inequalities.
This week’s featured article highlights findings from KFF’s 2023 survey, revealing how older Black, Hispanic, and Asian adults often face unfair treatment, financial barriers, and communication gaps in health care settings. Understanding these experiences is critical for advancing culturally responsive care and building a system that truly serves an increasingly diverse aging population.
Make it a great week!
Featured Resources 🙏🏾
Mindful Moment 😌
Pause, follow the guide below, and observe 3-5 DEEP breaths. Focus solely on the sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body, allowing yourself to fully be present in this moment.
Mindful Movement 🙆🏾♂️
This week's practice sets a positive tone for the day by calming the mind, boosting energy, and enhancing focus. Do this routine 2-3 times this week and notice any changes to your sleep quality.
Mindful Reflection ✍🏾
When was the last time I truly felt at peace, and what can I do to bring more of those moments into my daily routine?
Share your responses with us on Threads, and be sure to #balanceperiod
Affirmation 🗣️
Say this silently, or out loud, to yourself:
"I choose to prioritize my well-being, knowing that taking care of myself enables me to show up fully for others."
Upcoming Health/Wellness Events 🗓️
The Mirror Between Us
Join us for a heart-centered journey where mothers and daughters come together to heal and strengthen their bond through guided meditation, shared stories, and intentional connection.
- Saturday, May 24th, from 1:11 to 3:33 PM EDT
-
Broad Ripple Park Family Center & Park Office (1426 Broad Ripple Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220)
|
|
Grow & Glow Monthly Health Talks Topic: In Body In Mind
In honor of Mental Health Awareness and Women’s Health Month, we’ll explore the unique challenges women face in managing emotional well-being, physical health, and the connection between the two.
-
Thursday, April 24th, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM EDT
-
Indianapolis Public Library - Martindale-Brightwood Branch (2434 North Sherman Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46218)
|
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Health Care for Older Adults 👵🏾
As the U.S. population of adults aged 65+ becomes more racially and ethnically diverse, we want to highlight important facts about how older adults from different backgrounds experience health care. Understanding these differences can help us work toward better care for everyone.
Five Facts About Older Adults' Health Care by Race and Ethnicity
- Black and Hispanic older adults are more likely to delay care due to costs. About 16% of Black and 15% of Hispanic Medicare beneficiaries report putting off needed care because of costs, compared to 10% of White beneficiaries.
- Many older adults from minority groups face barriers when talking to doctors. Nearly 1 in 4 Asian older adults report communication problems with their healthcare providers, often due to language differences.
- White older adults are more likely to have a usual source of care. About 96% of White Medicare beneficiaries have a regular doctor or clinic they visit, while this number is lower for Black (93%), Hispanic (91%), and American Indian/Alaska Native (88%) older adults.
- Satisfaction with care quality varies by race. Black and Hispanic older adults are less likely than White older adults to rate their care as "excellent" or "very good."
- Technology access creates new gaps. Older adults of color are less likely to use online health portals or telehealth services, with 54% of White Medicare beneficiaries using these tools compared to 38% of Black and 36% of Hispanic beneficiaries.
Understanding these differences is the first step toward creating a healthcare system that works better for everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity.
Becoming an Advocate
Ask yourself: "What barriers might older adults of color in my community face when seeking healthcare, and what can I do to help remove these obstacles?"
Whether it's offering transportation, helping navigate insurance paperwork, or speaking up about language needs at local facilities, your awareness and support can make a real difference.
Source: Kaiser Family Foundation analysis of Medicare beneficiary experiences by race and ethnicity, 2023
Subscribe & Earn 💌
Looking for ways to boost your wellness and get rewarded for it? Subscribe to the Generational Wellness Digest and join our referral program! Share the love—refer a friend and get a free Mindful Merch when they sign up. It’s a win-win for your health and theirs!
Your Opinion Matters! 🫶🏾
We create this content with you in mind! Your feedback helps us make the Generational Wellness Digest even better. Let us know your thoughts on today’s volume so we can continue delivering value and inspiration that supports your wellness journey.
| What did you think of today's volume? |
|
|
|
|