News

In honor of National Grandparents Day on Sept. 7, INTEGRIS Health is spreading awareness about healthy aging.

Matthew D. Hart, M.D., is a board-certified family medicine physician, primary care doctor and expert in providing care to older adults at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Cross Timbers in north Edmond.

He answers a few important questions about the steps we can all take to protect the health of loved ones.

As we age, why are regular doctor’s visits much more important?

Age is a major risk factor for just about every common disease, including things like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer and dementia. It is also one of the few risk factors we can't change, and this is why regular checkups become more important as we age. Many of these conditions may be present without causing symptoms, and often earlier detection and treatment prevent progression in the future.

What screenings should we encourage our parents/grandparents to get?

The guidelines are nuanced and there are few screenings that truly apply to everyone. Appropriate screening tests vary by age, sex, risk factors and other health conditions. One of the main purposes of the annual physical exam is to collect this information and give your primary care provider a chance to decide which screenings are likely to benefit you as an individual. As we age and become sick with other issues, the benefit of screening decreases and there is a point where many screenings are no longer recommended.

What are the most common ailments that impact older adults?

Chronic conditions such as hypertension, arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, dementia and osteoporosis are most common. We also frequently address issues like falls, incontinence and polypharmacy (managing multiple medications).

Why is it important to encourage them to exercise and eat a balanced diet?

Our diets are important for several reasons. Maintaining healthy body weight, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, and preventing/controlling diabetes are all important issues that are largely related to our diets. As we age, it is also common for our eating habits to change. Exercise matters for several reasons. Many people associate exercise with losing weight or maintaining healthy body weight but there are other reasons too. These include preventing things like bone loss and falls. Exercise also helps maintain independence as we age and delays the use of assistive devices like walkers or canes. Lastly, exercise also helps us maintain functionality when we do develop disease. For example, patients undergoing chemotherapy often tolerate this better if they have high baseline levels of fitness than those who do not.

How much exercise do they need? What kind?

The right kinds of exercise for you depends on your current level of activity and other medical problems, but in general, getting some kind of cardiovascular exercise and some form of resistance training several times a week is ideal. The former could include things like walking, jogging, rowing and many others. The latter could be anything from weightlifting to yoga. I encourage patients to talk with their primary care doctor about what might be the best things for them to try.

What nutrition do they need? Especially as their appetite decreases?

As appetite declines, it’s important to focus on nutrient-dense foods. Think protein (like eggs, beans, fish), calcium and vitamin D (for bones), fiber (for digestion) and hydration. Sometimes small, frequent meals are easier than three large ones.

Why is it important for older adults to have a primary care physician?

A primary care physician helps coordinate care, manage complex health issues and maintain continuity over time. This relationship is key for spotting subtle changes, adjusting medications and providing support through life transitions.

How important is the grandparent/grandchild connection?

It’s incredibly important. Intergenerational relationships provide emotional support, purpose and joy. They can be a powerful motivator for older adults to stay active and engaged. Regular contact with younger family members helps combat loneliness, boosts self-worth and keeps older adults mentally sharp. It also passes down wisdom and family traditions, which enrich everyone’s lives.

Grandparents Day is a perfect reminder to check in with the older adults in our lives. Encourage them to stay up to date with preventive care, stay active and stay connected. Healthy aging is possible, and often starts with simple, consistent steps. Schedule an appointment with a primary care provider online to get started. Healthy aging doesn’t require a grand gesture. But your grandparents or grandchildren will thank you for it.