Between October 18–21, this website will move to a new web address (from health.gov to odphp.health.gov). During that time, some functions might not work as expected. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we’re working to make this transition as smooth as possible.

About Healthy Aging

Pan American Health Organization definition of healthy aging is, "Healthy aging is a continuous process of optimizing opportunities to maintain and improve physical and mental health, independence, and quality of life throughout the life course."

Healthy living is healthy aging. Developing and maintaining healthy aging practices throughout the lifespan contributes to greater resilience and opportunities to thrive as we age – from infancy through older adulthood. 

At ODPHP, our Healthy Aging work is grounded in research that demonstrates:

Older adults are essential members of society. They support their families and communities in formal roles – like becoming a volunteer or continuing in the workforce – and informal roles – like serving as a caregiver. However, outdated expectations and myths about aging can negatively impact older adults and communities. Opportunities for older adults in employment, education, and social engagement are often limited, leading to poorer overall health and wellness.

That’s why across our initiatives, ODPHP works to ensure that everyone, regardless of age or ability, can participate and contribute to society in meaningful ways.

ODPHP’s Priorities to Support Healthy Aging

  • Set national measurable objectives to improve the health and well-being of older adults through Healthy People 2030
  • Promote physical activity for older adults – and all ages – through Move Your Way®
  • Provide actionable and easy-to-use health information to older adults using MyHealthfinder
  • Support healthy eating patterns for older adults using the Dietary Guidelines for Americans
  • Ensure inclusivity of older adults and all abilities in all resources and products