Steps seniors can take to support mental, physical health

An internal medicine physician shares simple, proactive steps seniors can take to support both mental and physical health as they age.

Monday, June 30th 2025, 9:57 am

By: Brooke Cox


Dr. John Schumann, executive medical director at Oak Street Health in Tulsa, is an internal medicine physician who has spent more than 20 years caring for older adults.

Oak Street Health primarily serves patients on Medicare, the federal program for adults 65 and older.

Recognizing Mental Health Changes

When it comes to declining mental health in seniors, Dr. Schumann said symptoms can range from mild forgetfulness to more serious conditions like depression.

"It can mean someone feeling sad, down—in an intense case, hopeless," he said.

Common concerns such as misplacing keys or forgetting why you entered a room are not always alarming, but they can still signal a need for conversation with a healthcare provider.

Stigma Still A Barrier

Mental health remains under-addressed for many older adults, according to Dr. Schumann. While some individuals or families may recognize and respond to mental health concerns, others avoid the topic.

"There's still, unfortunately, a lot of stigma around mental health," he said. "So people can be very reluctant to either admit these feelings, talk about them or even seek help from a healthcare provider or mental health professional."

Link Between Mental and Physical Health

Schumann emphasized that mental and physical health are tightly connected. Individuals managing chronic illnesses, such as heart disease or cancer, are more likely to experience anxiety or depression.

Conversely, those struggling with mental health may see their physical conditions worsen. He said both areas of health can influence hospitalizations and quality of life.

Habits That Help

Regular routines—especially around sleep, nutrition, and movement—play a key role in supporting senior well-being. Schumann recommends aiming for consistent bedtimes and minimizing screen time before sleep.

Most older adults need at least seven hours of rest per night. Physical activity doesn't have to be intense; walking with a pet or grandchildren can be beneficial.

"Getting outside and walking every day can be a big difference from just sitting on the couch," he said. "It's important to go to bed at the same time every night to try to get an adequate amount of sleep."

Brooke Cox

Brooke Cox is a Digital Producer at News On 6, where she has been part of the team since August 2024.

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