Texas seniors are getting healthier, but still rank in the bottom half of the country in terms of health outcomes, according to the annual America's Health Rankings Senior Report, released by the United Health Foundation, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
Dustin Clark with United Health Care in Texas says Texas seniors jumped from 41st healthiest last year to number 38 this year, and much of it has to do with lifestyle changes.
"In the past year flu vaccination coverage has increased 13% among seniors," Clark said. "In the last three years, smoking has decreased by 31%.
Clark says the health challenges facing Texas seniors are also largely lifestyle related issues.
"There is a high prevalence of physical inactivity," he said.Clark also cited 'food insecurity' and a low percentage of quality nursing home beds for the state's low ranking.
He says working with community groups to come up with more activities for seniors would help correct the serious challenge of sedentary lifestyles, which lead to obesity, diabetes, and other negative health outcomes.
The healthiest state in the country for seniors, according to the study, is Minnesota, followed by Utah.
The least healthy state for seniors--Mississippi.
IMAGE: GETTY